Tributes have been pouring in for a special needs school teacher who died suddenly at her home from a brain haemorrhage.

Mother-of-three Susan Rankin, 43, from Hullbridge, passed away suddenly on May 31.

She worked at Sweyne Park School, in Rayleigh and staff and students flocked to pay tribute to the "remarkable lady" at her funeral, which was held at the All Saints Church in Rettendon on Friday.

Deputy headteacher Andy Hodgkinson said she will be greatly missed at the school, where she taught hearing impaired students since the school opened in 1997.

He said: "Sue was a remarkable lady and her death is a heck of a loss for our school. She was incredibly committed and hard working."

Her 15-year-old daughter, Kathryn is in Year 10 of the school in Sir Walter Raleigh Drive.

Mrs Rankin also leaves behind two sons, both in their early 20s.

Heartfelt tributes poured in from her students. Helen Pillai, 16, from Year 11 said: "Mrs Rankin was always smiling. I will remember her kindness and advice she has given me. I would not have got so far without her support throughout difficult times."

Published Wednesday, June 11, 2003

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