Tributes paid to Rawmarsh teacher who was “best ever”

Michael Gillott, was assistant headteacher at Rawmarsh Comprehensive until his retirement in 2004.

He died at St John’s Hospice in Doncaster on September 2 — two months after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Mr Gillott, known to pupils as Mr G and to friends as Mike, was appointed to Rawmarsh in 1968 and remained a school governor after retiring.

Ex-pupil Grace Burton called him the “best teacher ever”, adding: “So sad, RIP Mr Gillott (Sir)”, while Janet Davis said: “Mike was a gentleman and a fabulous teacher.

“He was my hero and I like many others had a crush on him.

“He always had a smile — a genuine guy, a lovely man.

“In later years, he taught my two children geography and we’d have a catch up on parents evenings. Rest in peace Mike.”

Barbara Hudson called him “an absolute inspiration”, while Claire Brooks said: “He supported me through very difficult times, he had time for everyone and everyone had the utmost respect for him.”

A school spokesman said: “His role as an assistant headteacher was working with and supporting students and families, and there will be a significant number of people in the community that he will have worked with.

“Our thoughts are with Mike’s family at this sad time.”

His funeral will take place on Tuesday, September 20 at 3.40pm at Rose Hill Crematorium, Cantley Lane, Cantley, Doncaster with a celebration reception at Warmsworth Hall, Holiday Inn Doncaster in Warmsworth, Doncaster afterwards through until 7.30pm. 

Donations in lieu of flowers should be made to Woodfield24 and St John’s Hospice.