Husband of Burnley deputy headteacher pays moving tribute to 'gorgeous wife and beautiful mum'

The family of a Burnley deputy headteacher, who died after going missing, have paid tribute to her.
By Susan Plunkett
Published 24th Apr 2020, 16:45 BST
Updated 25th Apr 2020, 11:12 BST
Donna Gadd (centre) pictured with her husband Richard and their daughters Ellie, Maddie and Claudia.Donna Gadd (centre) pictured with her husband Richard and their daughters Ellie, Maddie and Claudia.
Donna Gadd (centre) pictured with her husband Richard and their daughters Ellie, Maddie and Claudia.

Donna Gadd (pictured centre, with her family) was reported missing from her home in Higham on Tuesday.

Following a search by police and family members her body was found later the same day in the Sabden Fold area.

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Her death is not being treated as suspicious and a file pass to HM Coroner.

Family and colleagues have paid emotional tributes to Burnley deputy headteacher Donna Gadd who was found dead on Wednesday after going missing from her home.Family and colleagues have paid emotional tributes to Burnley deputy headteacher Donna Gadd who was found dead on Wednesday after going missing from her home.
Family and colleagues have paid emotional tributes to Burnley deputy headteacher Donna Gadd who was found dead on Wednesday after going missing from her home.

Donna was deputy headteacher at Wellfield Methodist and Anglican Church School.

In a tribute today her husband Richard, said: “My gorgeous wife and Ellie, Maddie and Claudia's beautiful mum sadly passed away on Tuesday after a long struggle against depression.

"We love her so much and we know she loves us too. She is now at peace with God. We will cherish all the memories we have of us being together.

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“Donna lived for her family, friends, neighbours and the children she taught at Wellfield School in Burnley, and previously at Park Primary School in Colne. She loves us all very much.

“Thank you for the lovely messages we have received over the last few days, even though we cannot be together.

"Please share happy memories of Donna with us.

“God bless you Donna, for all the joy you brought into the world."

Maria Ellel, headteacher at Wellfield Methodist and Anglican Church School, Burnley, has also paid a heartfelt tribute to her colleague, describing her as someone who was' well-loved and respected by staff, pupils and parents.'

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Mrs Ellel said: "Donna had many close friends in school, and also maintained relationships with past members of staff.

"She was passionate and committed to the pupils and to ensuring that they had a good future.

"Our thoughts, sympathies and prayers are with Donna's family and friends at this very sad and difficult time."

Related topics:Burnley

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