A much-loved former teacher who spent more than two decades inspiring pupils at Clacton County High School has died.
Paula Mathews, who taught English and Drama at the school, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, October 11.
Remembered by her family as "loving, generous, witty and wise", Paula dedicated much of her life to education and supporting young people.
During more than 20 years at Clacton County High School, she worked to help and encourage her pupils and became known for her enthusiasm, commitment and belief in their potential.
Her contribution to education also extended beyond the classroom, with Paula serving as a GCSE and A-level Drama examiner.
Born Paula Kidger in Bedworth, Warwickshire, she moved to Clacton in 1964 with her husband Bryan and their young family.
The Essex seaside town became her home, where she built a life centred around her family, friends, career and community.
Paula trained as a teacher at Digby Stuart College in Roehampton before undertaking further training in Religious Education at St Mary's College, Strawberry Hill.
Her passion for learning continued throughout her life and she later completed a Master's degree in Language and Linguistics at the University of Essex.
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Alongside her teaching career, Paula also played an active role in the family's holiday park business, working at weekends and during school holidays.
Her Catholic faith was an important part of her life and she worshipped at Catholic churches in both Clacton and Frinton.
Paula was also an active member of Clacton Inner Wheel and served as a president of the club.
She regularly hosted meetings and events, helping to foster friendships and community spirit within the organisation.
Described as the matriarch of her family, Paula leaves five children, Catherine, Helen, Jennifer, Richard and Philippa, as well as 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Her family said her legacy would live on through the generations of pupils she taught, the friendships she nurtured and the family she presided over.
They described her life as one filled with "dedication, generosity, laughter and joy" and said it had been "a life truly well lived".
Paula's funeral will take place at the Church of the Sacred Heart and St Francis in Frinton at 1pm on Thursday, November 5.
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