The obituary notice of John Adrian MCDONNELL (NEWCASTLE)

A much remembered friend from our U3A French group, with such a pleasant personality!

Very sorry to hear about this, some lovely memories about Mr McDonnell from my time at St. Johns in 6th Form - I loved his turn of phrase and sharp wit - I have a specific memory of being sat in one of the IT rooms and hearing him having a word with an unruly student... "Look at you, you'd think butter wouldn't melt! Well it has! And it's gone RANCID!"

An amazing line that still rattles around my head to this day, 20 years later. Sending love and best wishes to family, friends and all who remember him.

Fondly remembered as my head of sixth form and my a-level french teacher. A very kind, intelligent man, with a very sharp wit. Thoughts and prayers are with his family.

John helped me so much when I was a new and inexperienced Head of Sixth Form. He coached, guided and encouraged me every step of the way, and as a result students went to university that would never have dreamed of it before. He was a truly inspirational man and I will never forget all the advice John gave me as well as the many, many laughs we had along the way. A true gentleman with such a kind heart.

I was so shocked and sorry to hear about poor John's tragic accident and passing ! He taught me A-level French at St. Leonard's. I then went on to teach French myself at St. Leonard's. He was such a lovely man with a wicked sense of humour. Thinking of all his family and friends xxx

John taught me French at school in the 90's. At the time of my GCSE's my mam was seriously ill and died from cancer. I said nothing at school. When John found out he made some phone calls to my chosen Universities and explained the situation (I should have put in for special consideration). He got me onto my course at Uni and I went on to get a 2:1. I am now a teacher myself. Without John's help I may never have gone to University. I will always remember what he did for me. He always had time for everyone. One of those teachers you always remember. Top bloke.