A popular former deputy head teacher at a Halesowen school has died at the age of 89.

Dorothy Masters, who taught at Halesowen C of E primary school from 1952 until retiring in 1979, died at Wychbury Nursing Home following a bout of pneumonia on Tuesday January 27.

Son David said his mother, who was also a longstanding member of Halesowen Operatic Society, loved working with children and had the ideal personality for dealing with indiscipline.

He said: “Mum was quite domineering, she always got her own way and if any of the children stepped out of line she was the first person called to deal with it.

“Despite that she was genuinely loved by the youngsters, even after she retired they used to stop her in the town to speak to her.

“That certainly says something.”

Born in Smethwick in 1919, Dorothy attended Holly Lodge Grammar School and studied at Birmingham University before beginning her teaching career.

She married childhood sweetheart Fred at the age of 25 and the family moved to St Kenelm’s Avenue before tragedy struck when Fred died from cancer aged just 38.

A keen artist, Dorothy also appeared in numerous shows for both Halesowen and Brierley Hill operatics societies.

David said his mother loved to spend time with her two grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

David added: “She had been ill these past few years but before then she was always very active, she loved to walk the dogs every day without fail.

“She was very artistic and would spend hours drawing with the children.”

Her funeral is due to take place at St John’s Church, Halesowen, this Wednesday February 11 at 11.30am.

Were you taught by Dorothy? Post your tributes in the comments section below.