The principal of the Royal School in Dungannon has paid tribute to one of his pupils who sadly passed away on Tuesday.
Dr David Burnett, spoke of the shock in the school community following the death of 14-year-old Jack Stafford.
He wrote on the school website: Jack was a quiet boy who enjoyed working with computers and had a flair for creating outstanding multimedia presentations which entertained fellow pupils and teachers alike. He was a popular member of his form class with a close circle of friends who remember his sense of humour and kind, thoughtful demeanour.
The principal has also highlighted the support services that will be available to pupils at the school:
The impact of Jack’s loss on the RSD community will be very great indeed and we have a range of support services in school and these will continue in the days ahead. Any pupil, including pupils on study leave, who feels that he or she would like support at this difficult time should contact a member of staff. In the days ahead we will find ways to remember Jack and his time with us in our community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jack’s mother and father, Heather and Nigel, and his siblings, Stuart, Suzanne, Michelle and Debbie and the wider family circle at this most difficult time. In his attitude and his treatment of others, Jack was the best of RSD. We will miss him.
Jack’s funeral takes place today (Thursday) at Dungannon Baptist Church. He will be interred in Cottage Quinn Cemetery, Dungannon.
Donations in lieu of flowers will go to the Niamh Louise Foundation.
