THE funeral has taken place of Eleanor Patricia (Pat) Jones, long-time teacher at Cartmel Priory C of E School and at several primary schools across South Lakeland.

Pat’s teaching career began in Liverpool with a class of 52 primary children. She later taught in Barrow and Walney before moving to Lindale in 1966 when her husband, Les, was appointed head teacher there. She quickly became involved in the community, running keep-fit and dance classes as well as being a strong supporter of Lindale church, where she often created flower arrangements.

She joined Cartmel Priory School initially as a part-time teacher but took on a full time role as the school expanded. There she taught art and craft, needlework and PE. Her head teacher at the time was Mr F B Hampson who said of her: “Pat's work encouraged some talented pupils to do extremely well, but she also stimulated students who were less gifted academically and their self-confidence and self-esteem grew.

"Pat's caring attitude made her an excellent member of staff in the realm of pastoral care; she created an atmosphere in which pupils felt able go to ask her advice. She was kind and considerate and I can remember numerous occasions when a pupil would come and ask me: 'Can I go and see Mrs. Jones, please?'”

A former pupil remembers: “The craft room was tiny, but so colourful and I always thought it was like walking in to someone's home. She was a lovely lady who had a way of making everyone feel at home.” An exchange teacher from Canada, Loretta Humeniuk, stayed in touch over the years and remarked that “her energy at Cartmel inspired me”.

Pat was also engaged in a wide range of contributions to school life including sports activities and school functions. Colleagues and former pupils remember the wonderful craft displays she created for school fairs and other events. She was also an enthusiastic member of staff teams leading international school trips, such as to France, Germany and even Romania. These gave her great pleasure and lasting memories, particularly of the pupils who took part. Mr Hampson remarked that: “Pat’s retirement removed a strong pillar of support from the school and she will be always be remembered by all who knew her, with great respect and affection”.

In later retirement Pat and Les moved to be closer to family in Harrogate, where they continued a full and active life. Pat began to suffer from the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease and, following Les’s death, moved to a specialist care home in Harrogate, Vida Hall. There she took up painting again after many years, played the piano and tried to teach residents to dance. However, after 61 years of marriage, Pat died less than three months after Les.

Pat is survived by her children Elspeth and Peter, and grandchildren Joel, Tom, Max and Sophie. The family is collating a book of memories and can be contacted by email ej@elspethjones.com, or phone 07712 676423.