Errol Lemon: Heartfelt tributes to 'amazing teacher', 'brilliant principal' and committed champion of integrated education in Craigavon
Warm tributes have been paid to a former principal of Craigavon Integrated College whose inspirational commitment to integrated education has left an important and influencial legacy.
The school community spoke of its “deep sadness” following the passing of highly respected former colleague Errol Lemon.
Mr Lemon passed away peacefully at his home in Pinebank, Craigavon on Thursday, February 19.
He joined Brownlow High School as a History teacher in 1973, the year the school first opened and from the beginning demonstrated his commitment to providing “the highest quality education and care for every pupil”.
"Mr Lemon’s dedication to our school community spanned more than three decades, and his legacy continues to shape Craigavon Integrated College today,” a spokesperson for the school said.
"He was instrumental in the transformation of Brownlow High School into Brownlow Integrated College in 1991, playing a key role in establishing the inclusive, pupil-centred ethos that remains at the heart of our college.
"Mr Lemon became principal in 1994 and led the school with integrity, compassion, and vision. His belief in integrated education and his commitment to the young people of this community were evident in everything he did.
"After a distinguished career of service, he retired in 2006, leaving behind a strong, vibrant college shaped significantly by his leadership.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who knew him. His influence on our school, and on the many pupils whose lives he touched, will be long remembered and deeply appreciated.”
Many former colleagues and pupils shared their own fond memories on social media of Mr Lemon, describing him as “an amazing teacher” and “an absolute gentleman”.
"Errol led us down a road that no school had previously travelled and did so with bravery, optimism, faith in the value of Integrated education and faith in the community of Craigavon,” one person said.
Another commented: “Mr Lemon was one of those who left an indelible mark on my life. His unwavering dedication, kindness, and investment in his students' futures inspired me and many others.
"I'm grateful for the countless conversations we shared, both in class and if we met in the corridors, which not only helped shape my educational journey but also instilled valuable life lessons.”
Meanwhile, another added: “He was a brilliant leader and found ways to unify pupils and staff. He epitomised all that is great about Integration and Brownlow Integrated College's historic change to Integrated status. A gentleman and colleague of the highest order.”
A family notice remembers Mr Lemon as “beloved husband of the late Frances, treasured dad of Stephen and Kathryn, father in law of Tina and Philip, a much loved Granda of Ryan (Dearbhaile), Daire, Fionn, Aine, Claire, Rebecca, Andrew, a Great-Granda also a dear brother of Pamela (Philip) and the late Terry.”
His funeral service will be held on Monday, February 23 in Milne’s Funeral Home, Lurgan with burial following at 12.30pm in Banbridge Cemetery.
Mr Lemon’s family have requested family flowers only but donations in lieu are welcome for the benefit of Chest, Heart and Stroke NI via www.milnefuneralservices.co.uk/donate (028 3832 2121).