A former principal of Craigavon Integrated College, who played a central role in the school’s journey to integrated status and led it for more than a decade, has been remembered as a “brilliant headmaster”, a “kind-hearted gentleman” and “a special person”.
The school has announced, with deep sadness, the passing of Errol Lemon, whose dedication to the Brownlow and Craigavon school community spanned over 30 years.
Mr Lemon first joined Brownlow High School as a History teacher in 1973 – the year the school opened – and quickly became known for his commitment to providing “the highest quality education and care for every pupil”.
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 which, staff say, still defines Craigavon Integrated College today.
A spokesperson for the college 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.”
Former pupils colleagues have described Mr Lemon as a unifying force who embodied the values of integrated education.
One tribute read: “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.”
Another who knew him through the Integrated Education Fund (IEF) recalled how his passion for integration was unwavering: “I knew him in my role as an IEF fundraiser and only met him occasionally but he never failed to re-ignite my faith in the necessity for integration to be made available to all who wanted it. A special person for sure.”
Past pupils have also been sharing their memories of a principal who, they say, never gave up on his students and always had time for them.
One former pupil wrote: “He was a brilliant headmaster. He had a lot of time for all the pupils. Some probably made him question his life choices on a daily but he never gave up on them. R.I.P sir. Thinking of his family, friends and former colleagues.”
Another added: “RIP Mr Lemon, you were always a kind and friendly man and headmaster and history teacher, plenty of fond memories of the time you were with us in Brownlow, thoughts and prayers with the family and friends.”
“He was an amazing headmaster who always took the time to stop and speak to everyone who he passed and always a laugh,” said another tribute. “Thoughts are with his family.”
Former students also remembered his presence in the classroom and his skill as an educator.
“Errol was an amazing teacher! He never demanded our attention during lessons – he commanded our attention. Thinking of his family and family circle at this difficult time,” one message read.
A past pupil who arrived at Brownlow as one of the first foreign national students recalled his warmth and support: “What a gentleman he was! Very fond memories of his help and guidance back in 2005 as I was one of the first foreign national students to attend Brownlow Integrated College. [I] felt very welcomed and nothing was ever any trouble. May he rest in peace!”
Another tribute summed up the affection and respect in which he was held: “Errol was a wonderful school leader, a kind-hearted gentleman and a man with an infectious sense of humour.”
Craigavon Integrated College has said Mr Lemon’s legacy lives on in the ethos, relationships and inclusive spirit of the school he helped to shape.
A funeral notice said Mr Lemon passed away peacefully at his Pinebank home, Pinebank, Craigavon.
He has been described as the 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.
Family and friends are welcome to visit Errol’s late home on Saturday and Sunday 2pm – 8pm.
Funeral service on Monday at 11 am in Milne’s Funeral Home (Lurgan) with burial following at 12.30pm in Banbridge Cemetery.
Family flowers only please, donations for the benefit of Chest, Heart and Stroke NI via www.milnefuneralservices.co.uk/donate 02838322121.
