Tributes have been paid to a Tayside lollipop lady adored by local school children.
Gail Joyce, 63, a hugely popular figure among pupils and teachers at Monifieth’s Seaview Primary School, passed away suddenly on February 14 after suffering a stroke.
Her love of children coupled with her tendency to “blether” made working at the school a “perfect” job for jovial Gail, according to her family.
She had helped youngsters safely get to and from the school for the past two years, having also worked at Timex and WL Gore for 20 years each.
Just weeks ago following some near misses while carrying out her duties, primary five pupils at the school showed their concern for Gail by launching a campaign to clamp down on inconsiderate driving and parking.
Daughter Vikki Duffy, 42, said: “I think the job was just something she fancied after doing quite a few other things. It was perfect really.
“She loved the kids and they were all so fond of her. One of the first things she mentioned after she took unwell was the school children.
“She was wondering if they would be OK and was eager to get back working.
“She touched so many people and was very well thought of.”
Gail was raised in Douglas and attended Linlathen High School but moved to Muirhead after meeting husband Michael, who she married at Camperdown Parish Church in 1975.
The pair later moved to Monifieth where they had lived for the past 10 years.
Those who knew her best would describe her as a funny and warm person who always had a story to tell.
Michael said her personality meant she was best suited to any job with interaction.
He said: “She was meant to be away each day in the morning and afternoon for about 20 minutes but she’d be gone an hour blethering to the kids, teachers, and parents.
“She got so many gifts from the kids at Christmas, I’m surprised she was able to carry them all home.
“Everyone at the school has been very kind and caring since she passed.”
Seaview Primary School head teacher Jan Hughes said: “In Gail’s time as a school crossing patroller she had become a very popular figure outside the gates of Seaview, and will be sadly missed by children, parents and staff.
“Gail knew the names of every child, and took the time to speak to them all individually. She was a lovely lady.”
Gail had suffered a stroke last week and despite showing early signs of progress, sadly suffered another and was unable to recover.
The family paid tribute to staff at Ninewells Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for their “amazing” support and treatment.
As well as husband Michael and daughter Vikki, Gail leaves behind grandchildren Jonathan, 21, and Rhianna, 19 and son-in-law Steve.
The funeral will take place on Friday February 21 at 11am at Monifieth Parish Church, with the interment thereafter at Birkhill Cemetery.
All friends and relatives are invited to pay their respects.
