An “inspirational” teacher and "fun-loving" frient was on her way to a wedding when she was fatally injured in a four-vehicle crash.
Moyra Whelan, head of history at Woodbridge High School in Woodford, was on her way to a schoolfriend’s wedding when she was involved in a collision near Aldsworth in the Cotswolds last Friday (December 2).
The 35-year-old died in hospital afterwards.
In a statement released by Gloucestershire Police, Moyra's loved ones said: "We are all mourning the passing of our beloved daughter and sister Moyra Whelan. She was the second youngest of seven siblings and lived in East London.
"Moyra loved her job and the children loved her back.
"She was an inspirational teacher, a straight-talking, fun-loving friend to many and the sunshine of our family. She enjoyed life to the full and was on her way to a wedding of one of her school friends when tragedy struck."
Woodbridge High School headteacher Steven Hogan said: "This is the most terrible and tragic loss to our school.
"Ms Whelan was an amazing history teacher and head of department. Her classroom was a superb place to be, buzzing with energy.
READ MORE: Woodford Green school celebrates diversity on Armistice Day
"So many students have benefited from her wisdom, knowledge and expertise."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here