Yvonne Winifred MATHERS

I offer my sincere sympathy to Yvonne's family at this time of great loss.
As my line manager at the former WELB Yvonne taught me so much, not only about the
job in hand, but also about living life and how important work/life balance is.
She was a true professional in every way and set herself and her staff high standards. However, it was the empathy which she had with her staff that set her amongst the very best of leaders.
Yvonne had the ability to give her staff the capacity to lead and further improve high standards of teaching and learning in schools, in the area of Literacy, and built up their confidence in a subtle way. Her love of Literacy was evident and when in the classroom she could engage and enthuse every pupil regardless of ability.
She was vibrant, full of fun and humour and always looked amazing.
Travelling with her to and from various schools in the West was always something to look forward to. The conversation was stimulating and there were always lots of laughs.
We will most of all miss her friendship and caring disposition.
Yvonne, may you rest in peace.

Ingrid Logan (Advisory teacher with the former WELB Literacy Team; recently retired Principal of Lisbellaw Primary School)
Ingrid Logan Wednesday 15 April 2020

I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Yvonne Mathers
Yvonne was a much loved member of our Advisory Service and did much to enhance the life chances of children while providing support to their hardworking teachers.
She was a free spirit, with a positive outlook and generous heart. How sad that a beautiful life has been cut short. My sincere sympathy to Joanna, Peter and her beloved grandchildren.
Shiela Mc Caul
Former Senior Education Officer WELB Shiela Mc Caul Monday 13 April 2020

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Yvonne’s passing. I will remember her as a hard-working, visionary and, of course, stylish lady whose love of Literacy was truly inspirational!
Sincere condolences to her family and friends, at this very sad time, from the Principal and Staff at Limavady Central Primary School. Mrs Maureen Smyth, Principal at Limavady Central Primary School Monday 13 April 2020

Sincere condolences to Yvonne's beloved family circle from the Principal, Helen Cole and staff of Ballykelly P. S. Yvonne's passion for literacy is now a legacy in so many schools across the western region. We were shocked and saddened to hear this heartbreaking news. Yvonne was professional, dedicated and a lady with style. R. I. P. Helen Cole, Principal, Ballykelly Primary School Sunday 12 April 2020

The Principal and staff of Drumahoe Primary School deeply regret the passing of Yvonne and offer our sincere condolences to her family and friends. Yvonne was such an inspirational person who instilled confidence in everyone who was fortunate enough to have the privilege of working alongside her. T.R. McMaster Principal Drumahoe P.S. Sunday 12 April 2020

I was deeply saddened by the news that Yvonne has passed away. Yvonne was a good friend and colleague for many years. She was a valuable member of the former WELB Curriculum Service. A true professional highly regarded by all. Sincere condolences to Joanne, Michael and her extended family it was truly a pleasure to work with your mum. She will be missed by so many.


Paddy Mackey on behalf of the Former WELB Sunday 12 April 2020

Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Yvonne on her untimely passing from the community of Holy Family Primary and Nursery School, Derry. Garry Matthewson Saturday 11 April 2020

Yvonne was one of the most dynamic and knowledgable Board Advisors that I had the pleasure of working with - so shocked to hear of her death - my sympathies to her family of whom she spoke so lovingly. Nigel Dougherty - former Principal Ebrington Primary School Friday 10 April 2020