Well-known Alnwick woman who taught at several local schools passes away

A former Alnwick teacher has passed away peacefully at the age of 84.
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Molly Cooper (nee Taylor) grew up in Scarborough and became a student at Alnwick Training College, then housed inside Alnwick Castle, qualifying in 1957 with a distinction in the practice of teaching.

Initially she began teaching at Carr Lane Junior School, York. After several years of service there, she returned to live in Alnwick, teaching at Alnwick C of E Junior School. At this time she attended Alnwick Baptist Church and led the Brownie pack there.

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When she married in 1967, she moved initially to Newcastle, where she taught part-time in Gosforth. In 1968, she moved to Seahouses.

Molly Cooper, from Alnwick, who has passed away at the age of 84.Molly Cooper, from Alnwick, who has passed away at the age of 84.
Molly Cooper, from Alnwick, who has passed away at the age of 84.

Her first daughter, Sarah, was born that year and she became a full time mother and housewife.

In 1971 she moved back to Alnwick where a second daughter, Rachel was born. After the birth of her son Adam, she became one of the joint leaders of the nursery group founded in St James’s Church buildings.

During some of her child-rearing years there were opportunities for temporary and part time teaching work, including home tuition for those unable to attend school and teaching at Thomas Percy RC School.

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As her children grew older, she was able to return to full-time teaching at Lindisfarne Middle School. Her main college subjects had been Religious Studies and Art. Her classrooms were always artistically presented and an inspiration to her pupils.

Molly Cooper in her garden at The Dunterns in Alnwick.Molly Cooper in her garden at The Dunterns in Alnwick.
Molly Cooper in her garden at The Dunterns in Alnwick.

Towards the end of her teaching career she began to worship with Alnwick House Church. In later years she also attended Alnwick Methodist Church.

She had a strong interest in sport, particularly Scarborough FC.

In her retirement she made many excellent friends. She continued to 'work out' at the gym for many years, frequent Alnwick coffee shops, and cultivate her beautiful garden.

She lived at The Dunterns for 48 years.

Molly Cooper with her three children Adam, Rachel and Sarah in 2016.Molly Cooper with her three children Adam, Rachel and Sarah in 2016.
Molly Cooper with her three children Adam, Rachel and Sarah in 2016.
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Her son, Adam, said: “Mum was an uplifting person, full of humour and determination.

“She'll be a loss to friends and family, but died peaceful at home, content that she had a full and satisfying life.”

Molly died at home on October 19. She also leaves six grand-children.

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Molly Cooper, with her son Adam on her knee and daughter Rachel, far left, at St James' church play group Christmas party, 1975.Molly Cooper, with her son Adam on her knee and daughter Rachel, far left, at St James' church play group Christmas party, 1975.
Molly Cooper, with her son Adam on her knee and daughter Rachel, far left, at St James' church play group Christmas party, 1975.

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