Tributes for beloved teacher and pianist

Tributes have been paid to a much loved former teacher and church pianist who died aged 75.

Winifred Jones, who was known as Wyn, taught at Manor Primary School in Lanesfield, Wolverhampton, for 25 years before she retired in July 1998.

She also played piano and organ at a number of churches across the Black Country, having learned to play the instrument at a young age.

Mrs Jones was the sole female member of the Coseley Male Voice choir, for which she performed piano duties for 43 years. Prior to her death she was the pianist at South Street Church in Brierley Hill.

After her retirement Mrs Jones continued to support Manor Primary by helping children put together and perform Christmas productions and carol concerts.

She would play piano and teach the youngsters the songs and music to many of her favourite productions, including Annie, The Wizard of Oz and Scrooge.

A maths specialist, Ms Jones led music across the school and was also a highly respected member of the senior leadership team.

Anita Cliff, headteacher at Manor Primary, said: "Wyn was a highly skilled colleague who was admired by everyone who worked with her.

"She was exceptionally hardworking. Whatever she did she ensured she did to the best of her ability. Staff admired her professionalism and her positive spirit and the support she gave tirelessly to all.

"Wyn will be missed by the whole school community of Manor. She will be fondly remembered by the children here now, children of past generations, parents, grandparents and great-grandparents of our school community.

"She was a remarkable lady."

Mrs Jones grew up in Prince's End, Tipton and lived in Gayfield Avenue, Brierley Hill at the time of her death. She is survived by her son Graham, aged 45, who said his beloved mother will be greatly missed.

He said: "She was a loyal, devoted, committed and reliable mom, grandmother and aunt - and she was never short of an opinion!"

Mr Jones' partner, Helen Foster, 32, said: "Wyn doted on her grandchildren Gregory and Lillia-Mae and was incredibly passionate about music. Even in her final hours she was still running her fingers down her chest as if playing the piano."

Mrs Jones died on July 18. Her funeral was held at Gornal Crematorium on August 7 and was followed by a remembrance service at Tipton Green Methodist Church.