Tributes paid to ‘much loved and valued’ Eastbourne school staff member

Michelle Jeffery, who was 45 and lived in Hampden Park, was a member of the canteen, cleaning and food technology departments at Eastbourne Academy and a funding page has been set up for her family.

On the page Linsey Simmons said, “My beautiful best friend Michelle Jeffery has been taken from her family, children and friends suddenly on Sunday morning (January 17, 2021).

“She was the most loving, kind, selfless person I have ever met, my bestest friend in the world. There will never be another Michelle.”

Ms Simmons told the Herald, “Michelle was a very happy, caring person with a big heart. Nothing was too much for her to help anyone. She was the life and soul of a good party. She laughed and was something else, she would brighten up anyone’s day if you were feeling down.

“I am Michelle’s best friend. We have known each other for over 30 years. We have shared our lives together through our childhood and teenage years, through our children, and through our marriages. I got Gavin and Michelle together on a blind date.

“I will miss my chats with Michelle whenever we both needed each other. We were always there at any time. I will never forget my best friend.”

Eastbourne Academy also paid tribute and a spokesperson said, “She was a much loved and valued member of the canteen, cleaning and food technology departments and will be greatly missed at the Eastbourne Academy.

“She was a very kind, cheerful and thoughtful colleague. Nothing was ever too much for her.

“She was also one of our parents. We are all so sad for her lovely family and we are here for them whenever they need us.”

Donations for Ms Jeffery’s family can be made at http://bit.ly/3dfQKoX.