Chloe McDermott: Hill Croft School pays tribute to 'dedicated and innovative young teacher'
Tributes have been paid to a much-loved teacher at a Newtownabbey school following her death just nine months after receiving a cancer diagnosis.
Hill Croft School said it was with “deep sadness that we let our school community know of the passing of one of our teachers, Chloe McDermott.”
Chloe, who was 30, came to Hill Croft for her final year of teaching practice in 2021 and remained as a teacher across the school, working in Foundation Stage in recent years.
"She was a dedicated and innovative young teacher who gave her all to her pupils. Her meticulous preparation and attention to every detail brought fun, energy, and sparkle to all aspects of learning in her class,” the school said.
"Chloe was a bold and fierce young woman, known and loved throughout the school. Her positivity, ready smile, and sunny demeanour moved with her wherever she went. She was always willing to help her colleagues and was a loyal friend to many. Her sense of humour and love for life will never be forgotten.
"Chloe fought a valiant battle against cancer over the last nine months. She remained positive in her outlook the whole way through and maintained her colourful sense of style, even on difficult days.”
A book of condolences will be open from September 22 to October 10, the school added.
Hill Croft will also continue to raise money for its charity of the year Action Cancer in her honour.
A funeral notice remembers Chloe as the beloved daughter of Stephen and Evelyn, cherished sister of Stephen and Carley, loving sister-in-law of Lauren and Francis, devoted auntie of Hector, Mabel and Reina, and much-loved partner of Peter.
A celebration of Chloe’s life will be held in Living Hope Church, Belfast on Tuesday, September 23 at 9.30am and afterwards to Roselawn Cemetery. Donations in lieu of flowers, if desired can be made to Friends of the Cancer Centre, c/o Stephen McCosh Funeral Directors, 117-121 Shankill Road, Belfast, BT13 1FD.
"The family would love to reflect the brightness Chloe brought to this world; colours are welcome to be worn,” the notice added.
"She will be sorely missed by her loving family circle.”