'Much-loved' Wellington teacher of 39 years dies after hit by car in US
Wellington Girls’ College has paid tribute to a “much loved” teacher of 39 years killed after being hit by a car during a “trip of a lifetime”.
Gail Ives died on Monday, two weeks after being struck while out running in Los Angeles.
The school said the PE teacher and her husband had been on a six-month international holiday attending major sporting events.
“Much loved as a colleague, teacher and friend, Gail will be sorely missed by the WGC [Wellington Girls’ College] community,” the school said in a social media post.
“Gail was a student at WGC and then taught here – this was her 39th year in the Health/PE department.
“As her husband Richard said, this was her first home.”
Former students and classmates have responded to the “awful and heartbreaking” news and shared memories of Ives.
Wellington Girls' College said Gail Ives was a student at the school, before teaching in the PE and Health department for 39 years. Photo / WGC
“She was so lovely, passionate about sports, quietly spoken but strong in empathy,” a former student said.
A former colleague described Ives as a “dedicated teacher” with the “most positive outlook on life”.
Many shared fond memories of seeing Ives running through Wellington, noting she would always stop to talk with school community members.
“You were one of my favourite teachers at college,” one former student said.
“I still remember how you would always be jogging around school to your next class.”
“You were always so patient especially with us girls that weren’t always on our best behaviour,” they wrote.
The school is asking anyone with messages for the family to contact elmarie.els@wgc.school.nz.
Service details would be shared on social media when available.
“Moe mai rā Gail,” the school said.
Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you
Get the iHeart App
Get more of the radio, music and podcasts you love with the FREE iHeart app. Scan the QR code to download now.
Download from the app stores
Stream unlimited music, thousands of radio stations and podcasts all in one app. iHeart is easy to use and all FREE
