TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Westcliff High School for Boys PE teacher who inspired generations of students during his 40-year career.
Jimmy Harrison passed away peacefully at his home, aged 91, surrounded by loving family and friends earlier this summer.
He was educated at Westcliff High School for Boys from 1945 to 1951, before completing military service and attending Loughborough College.
Jimmy returned to the school as a PE teacher in 1956, took over the PE Department in 1971, and continued for more than 35 years until 1991.
In recognition of his service, the sports hall at Westcliff High School for Boys bears his name – The Jim Harrison Hall.
A spokesman for Westcliff High School for Boys said: “Our School flags fly at half-mast as a mark of our respect for Mr Jimmy Harrison. Jimmy was a larger-than-life character who inspired and encouraged many generations of Westcliffians.
“During his tenure, the school enjoyed considerable success in a range of sports. Many Old Westcliffians will have fond memories of Jimmy, not least of the many school trips he ran, be it on tour with a team, skiing down slopes, or cycling through the Netherlands.
“We remember Jimmy for his infectious enthusiasm, good humour, kindness and passion for sport, and rugby in particular. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jimmy’s family.”
Even after leaving Westcliff High School for Boys in 1991, Jimmy returned on a part-time basis for a few years. Jimmy was also known by many at Westcliff Rugby Football Club, through his passion for the sport. Following his passing, the club hailed him as a “legend”.
In his personal life, Jimmy was married but lost his wife in 1977. The couple had two children together, born in 1964 and 1966.
Ricky Harrison, one of Jimmy’s children, said: “I would describe him as a man whose insight was more instinctive than analytical. If I’d have said to my dad he was a great man he would’ve shrugged his shoulders and predictably laughed it off.
“In order to avoid such a situation, I might have just about got away with suggesting he was the embodiment of greatness.
“The nuance here is extremely difficult to communicate. I have been repeatedly told dad was admired and respected by all. Dad was a man who was out to win every day of his life.
“Sport was very much a way of life for Jimmy he remained active into his nineties. He even cycled across the US from Canada to Mexico after he retired. Rugby was his life time passion too.
“Jim was an absolute legend at the school. I hear it over and over; he imbued confidence within the students.”
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