In Memory Of - Mrs Kate Rhodes 1971-2004

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to former teacher Kate Rhodes who spent more than 30 years at Priory.

Kate, who was Miss Slater when she started at Priory in 1971 before she retired as Mrs Rhodes in 2004, encouraged and inspired thousands of pupils over the years through her roles in the PE Department and as Head Of Year, which she was passionate about.

She worked alongside her husband Dave at Priory, he was a PE teacher from 1976-2010, and she was a popular and well-respected colleague through those years, showing support and dedication to everyone.

Kate passed away at her home on 1st September and everyone connected with Priory is heartbroken.

Principal Mr Eastham, who started his career at Priory in the PE department under Kate and Dave’s guidance, said: “We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Mrs Kate Rhodes, a much-loved former colleague and teacher who dedicated many years to our school community.

“Kate retired just over 20 years ago after a long and impactful career in our PE department and as a Head of Year, where she inspired countless students through her passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment.

“She was not only a trusted colleague but also a dear friend to so many, and her influence continues to be felt in the lives of those she came into contact with and worked alongside. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones at this time.”

Both Kate and Dave had been regular visitors back to Priory, opening our refurbished gym in September 2017 and, more recently in March, they both came back for our Class of 1976 reunion when Olympic gymnast Susan Cheesebrough returned to Priory.

Susan said: “I’m so sorry to hear Miss Slater (Mrs Rhodes) has passed away. Myself and my sisters Anne and Catherine send sincere condolences to her family and all the people who knew her, a very inspirational woman with a kind heart.

“Kate will be in our thoughts, I for one will remember her for the time she gave to me personally. Rest in peace lovely lady.”

The outpouring of affection for Mrs Rhodes has been phenomenal with hundreds of comments on Facebook:

Vanessa Cole wrote: “Miss Slater was the epitome of what a teacher should be. Kind, fair, caring, stern if needed and the encouragement she gave on a daily basis shaped many a person.”

Sharron Smith said: “A wonderful teacher, she inspired and encouraged my love of athletics back in the 80s.”

Jane Heylar said: “Miss Slater was an excellent person, caring, supporting and real. I loved PE with her and being part of the netball team. ‘Come on ladies!’ I can hear her now.”

Natalie Anne said: “Miss Slater was one of the reasons why I fell in love with sport and PE, she was always so supportive and positive. When at Uni in the 90s, I went back to do some shadowing of her for my course and she was so supportive.”

Elaine Harrison added: “She was my Head of Year and had a perfect mix of caring, a great sense of humour but stern if needed. The ‘Come on Ladies’ shout to motivate us during cross country is ringing in my ears as I type.”

Kate was a beloved wife of Dave, much-loved step-mum to Laura, mother-in-law to John, and a wonderful Grandma to Alfie and Daisy. She was also a dear sister to Val and a cherished cousin to Eileen.

The funeral will take place at Charnock Richard Crematorium on Tuesday, 16th September at 12.30pm. At Kate’s request, those attending the celebration of her life are invited to wear colourful clothing. Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, will be gratefully received in support of St Catherine’s Hospice c/o the funeral director: Neal Buckley Funerals, 6 Liverpool Road, Penwortham, PR1 0AD. Tel: 01772 744700