Tributes have been paid to the first headmaster of Magherafelt High School, Derek T Bailie, who has passed away.
Mr Bailie was the first principal of Magherafelt County Intermediate School, which later became Magherafelt High School.
When Magherafelt Secondary Intermediate opened its doors in 1956, it was under the leadership of Mr Bailie (pictured), an ex-Navy man.
He served in the post until his retirement in 1984.
Principal of Magherafelt High School, Stephen Elder said Mr Bailie would be ‘well remembered’.
He said the governors, staff and pupils of this school were “saddened” to learn of his death.
He added: “He will be well remembered by many past pupils of the school, their families and by many in Magherafelt and the surrounding area.
“He worked hard to build up the school to the position if high standing it now commands in the community.
“Mr Bailie guided it through its early teething troubles and as it became Magherafelt Controlled Secondary School and then Magherafelt High School, he always sought to improve educational opportunities offered its students.
“He always tried to do what was best for both pupils and staff.
“All connected with the school would like to extend their sincere condolences to his wife, Mrs Florence Bailie at this very sad time,”
DUP Councillor Anne Ford has also expressed her condolences to Mr Bailie’s family.
She said: “I was very sorry to hear of the death of Mr Bailie.
“During his time at Magherafelt High School, he did a brilliant job.
“The pupils of the school have been all the better for the principles and education that he passed on to them.
“I would like to offer my condolences to his family at this time,” said Mrs Forde.
Pupils both past and present have taken to social media to pay tribute to the former headmaster.
One posted this message: “Condolences to his dear wife, family and friends, he was a gentleman.”
Another wrote this message: “He was a man of strong character and great principles. God bless his family.”
Mr Bailie was laid to rest in Rashee cemetery following a funeral service in his home in Ballyclare.
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