TRIBUTES have been made to a passionate and supportive primary schoolteacher who died suddenly in her home last week.

Parents, teachers, and members of the community have all paid their respects to Maureen Horner, of Acle, who gave 10 years of dedicated service to Homefield Primary School in Bradwell.

The 60-year-old, who played a key role in leading the school choir, was remembered for her caring nature, her great sense of humour and for being a teacher that “every child liked”.

Elizabeth Davis, headteacher at Homefield Primary School, said Mrs Horner’s death on Tuesday last week had come as a great shock and her sincerest thoughts were with her family.

She said: “She was passionate about those in her care, supporting and helping children and adults alike.

“She led the school choir who, last Thursday with other pupils, recorded a hymn for her funeral service.

“Mrs Horner will be greatly missed by staff, pupils, parents and in particular myself as she was a true friend and colleague.”

Maureen Horner is survived by her husband Frank, children Julie and Patrick, and her grandchildren Holly and Matthew.

Samantha Corby, whose children Joe and Megan were in her class, said in one of the many tributes on the Mercury Family Notices website: “Maureen, you were such a wonderful colleague friend and teacher. While we are struggling to come to terms with losing you we also have lots of happy memories of you.

“Your laugh, your warm smile accompanied with a little wink, your friendly hugs, your sense of humour, the time you took to listen, your caring nature – so many qualities that made you such a special lady.”

Also on the website, Ynez Symmonds said Mrs Horner had always had time for everyone.

She writes: “Words can not describe how truly phenomenal Maureen was. A rock for children, parents and colleagues alike, she always had time to listen, talk and smile and will be greatly missed by all.”

Julie Green remembered how she saw a different side to Maureen as a parent and then when she was working alongside her.

“Maureen Horner was a teacher every child liked. As a parent you met one side, after working with her you met another. A kind, caring and funny lady. She has left a hole in so many lives.

A funeral service is being held for Mrs Horner at Gorleston Crematorium, on Monday at 10.40am and all friends and colleagues are welcome to attend.

The family has asked for no flowers, and instead donations to the British Heart Foundation or Diabetes UK.