Tributes have been paid to a popular former Borden Grammar School teacher.

Marion Minhall died on Saturday, July 5, after being diagnosed with cancer. She was 66.

Mrs Minhall, who leaves husband Martin, three children and five grandchildren, worked at the school from 1983 to 2007.

She was also a member of the leadership group with responsibility for Key Stage 3 pupils.

A statement issued by Borden’s deputy head teacher, Laurel Townend, said: “Her loss is sudden and untimely after a short illness, and the school community feel it keenly – she will be very much missed.

“The school extends its condolences to all her family, including her daughter, Ruth Minhall, who is a teacher at Borden.”

According to Mrs Townend, students will remember American-born Mrs Minhall, a resident of Borden for more than 30 years, for her “firm but effective guidance”.

She supported a number of good causes, including Demelza Hospice Care for Children, and sponsored an African child.

During her time at Borden, she encouraged students to take up debating and public speaking and set up the school uniform shop as well as being a “stalwart” member of its parents and friends association.

“She supported and steered teachers learning their craft and was a very valued colleague and friend to both teachers and support staff,” Mrs Townend said.

After taking early retirement in 2007, Mrs Minhall worked in teacher training at Canterbury Christ Church University and supported a number of Borden-based groups and events such as St Peter and St Paul Church, and the village fete.

She was also actively involved with the Freewheelers, a group set up by partners of the Rotary Club of Sittingbourne Invicta, of which her husband Martin is a member.

Mrs Townend said: “She was a mainstay of the local community, always willing to get involved in fundraising and very active in community life.”