The violent killing of Ann Maguire in April shook the nation – it was the murder of a woman described as the ‘rock’ at the centre of her family.
She was a dedicated and committed Catholic who, as well as teaching Spanish, also took religious education classes.
The Pope led the tributes at the time of her death.
Francis asked his British ambassador, Archbishop Antonio Mennini, to send his condolences.
He wrote a letter which said: “Having learnt that sad news of the tragic murder of Mrs Ann Maguire last Monday at Corpus Christi Catholic College in Leeds, I should like to convey to you as well as to Mrs Maguire’s family, friends colleagues and the whole community of Corpus Christi College, the spiritual closeness of the Holy Father, Pope Francis as well as my sincere sympathy in these difficult moments.
“I assure you of my prayers for the repose of the soul of Mrs Maguire and for the consolation and strengthening of all those persons close to her and all those who mourn her sudden death.
“May the Lord grant her eternal rest and reward of her life of dedication and of service to young people and to education.”
Mrs Maguire had taught at Corpus Christi Catholic College, in Leeds, for more than 40 years and was due to retire in September.
She was regarded as the “mother of the school” and its “heartbeat”.
One colleague said: “If you cut Ann Maguire in half you would see ‘Corpus Christi’ running through her.”
At her memorial service in September, her daughter Kerry told crowds gathered outside: “One of Ann’s life principles as a teacher was ‘you can never put a limit on a child’s potential’.”
Her pupils were asked to pick one word to describe the teacher.
”Perfect”, ”passionate”, ”fantastic”, ”amazing” and ”warm”.
Source and Original Content by Premier Radio News