Edward Carey, known as Ted, died from cancer on Tuesday, March 18, at his home in Nerja, Spain, where he had lived with his second wife Shirley for 19 years.

Mr Carey, who was head teacher at the school in Marlborough Road from 1979 to his retirement in 1988, had a passion for music and one of the many tributes to him said: "The music in heaven will be much better from now on."

Retirement radio celebrity

His son Mike, of Shoreham, said: "He was a very successful and popular headmaster who was much admired by staff and pupils alike.

"He always had a passion for music and used to DJ for the school discos.

"He continued this interest on his retirement to Spain where he became a local celebrity with his Sunday morning broadcasts on local radio.

"He made many friends and, with his mantra of 'the best of times is now', was a much loved figure within the community."

Mr Carey had been due to celebrate his 80th birthday on Sunday.

Until he and his wife retired to Spain, they lived in East Preston and then in Churchill Parade, Rustington, above the bookshop Mrs Carey ran.

Mr Carey started teaching after coming out of the army.

He began teaching maths and PE and got his first headship at Selhurst Infants School, then moved on to Hurst Green and The Downs at Bexhill, before West Park.

Colleague's admiration

Stan James, who was head of years four and six under Mr Carey's leadership, said: "Ted was a dedicated head teacher and a good leader.

"Under his leadership the school always achieved very high standards in all areas of the curriculum and was also a very happy environment for everyone.

"We were one big happy family and the children worshipped him.

"He made everyone feel special and important.

"He was incredible, unique and a lovely man, and will be sorely missed."

Enthusiastic sportsman

He was a keen jogger and used to run marathons as well as playing badminton at club level with Shirley.

The couple continued their love of sport in Spain, playing tennis, golf and petanque.

A keen jazz and popular music fan, Mr Carey would always be looking for opportunities to drop a song title, or the line from a song, into conversation.

The family remember driving back from evenings out singing 'the old man from the mountain's coming home', 'pour me another tequila, Sheila' or 'you'll have to speak up I've got beans in my ears'.

He had three sons, Paul, Mike and David, with his first wife, also Shirley, who lives in Hastings. He also leaves six grandchildren.

Mr Carey was cremated in Spain last week and his wife is going to arrange a celebration of his life later in the year.

Were you taught by Mr Carey?

Leave your tributes by commenting below or email: sarah.booker@worthingherald.co.uk

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