Tributes to amazing Goring mum and teaching assistant

Rosemary Russell, who had worked in a variety of roles at West Park School in Marlborough Road, Goring, for nearly nine years, died on Sunday, April 1, aged just 53.

She had bravely battled leukaemia but lost her fight at Worthing Hospital just three months after being diagnosed.

Rosemary, known as Rosie to many, had worked as a dinner lady, a governor, an admin assistant and was a first aider at West Park.

She was also a lecturer at Northbrook College where she was training other teaching assistants of the future and was a fundraiser for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Rosemary, of Manor Road, Worthing, leaves her husband of 21 years, Paul, and three children '“ Tim, 34, Catherine, 33, and Felicity, 19.

Felicity said: "She had only been diagnosed in December and had been having chemotherapy.

"Her prognosis was excellent and she was in remission at one point but it just declined.

"It was a real shock to us all but right from the start, mum battled through, was always smiling and always positive.

Speaking about her teaching work, Felicity added: "She absolutely loved her job '“ she found it really rewarding, especially when the children she had helped went on to do well. She was always there for the children."

Peter Neale, head teacher at West Park, has written to all of his staff and hopes many will attend Rosemary's funeral next week, wearing bright colours as requested by the family.

Mr Neale said: "I have only been at the school since September but I had got to know Rosie quite well since she fell ill.

"The school will really miss her, a lot of people spoke very highly of her.

"She always had a positive outlook on life and was very outgoing.

"She just wanted the best for everyone.

"After the Easter holiday we will think about a fitting tribute to her."

Rosemary's funeral takes place on Friday, April 13, at St Mary's Church in Goring (3pm).

Those who attend are asked to reflect her life of colour in their attire and to make any donations to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Felicity said: "Mum never wore black.

"She would go through phases and, I think, was once referred to as the purple lady.

"I will be wearing a lime-green jacket."

What were your memories of Mrs Russell?

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