A beloved science teacher passed away suddenly in a freak accident that took place over the Christmas holidays.
53-year-old Leigh Lemmon was a science enthusiast who worked at St Joseph’s Catholic High School in Albion Park, NSW, Australia.
According to the reports, the high school educator recently traveled from his native Albion Park to Nethercote at the Far South Coast where he ran into unexpected trouble after entering the Yowaka River for a swim on January 4.
While battling the rough current of the river, Lemmon was pulled underneath the surface and he died from drowning. Despite the best efforts of the emergency workers who arrived at the scene, the man could not be saved after he was pulled from the treacherous waters.
As one family friend explained, the 53-year-old’s death was “an absolute shock and something for which no one could ever imagine or be prepared for.”
Following the sad news, tributes to the teacher began pouring in, with many Lemmon’s students remembering the science fan for his interesting lessons and inspiring nature.
“He not only helped me achieve my best in physics, but also contributed thoughts and ideologies that have genuinely impacted my worldview,” one student wrote.
“He is a person I look up to, and respect in the highest regard, not only as a mentor but as a friend.”
Another said: “May his memory always warm your heart & dry your tears. Farewell Mr Lemmon Quantum Navigator.”
A third expressed: “Mr Lemmon, whichever universe you’re travelling through now; quantum or cosmic, thank you. I’ll continue to look at the starry skies with your curiosity and hope to meet you again out there some day. Quantum Cadet, forever in training.”
Our thoughts remain with Leigh’s loved ones during this challenging time.