Rachel Armstrong: Tributes have been paid to 'delightful pupil' whose 'company brought joy to everyone around her'
Many tributes have been paid to Larne schoolgirl Rachel Armstrong,15, after her passing.
The 15-year-old died on January 12 ‘peacefully at hospital’, according to Funeral Times.
She is described as the ‘dearly loved daughter of Judith and Andy. Loving sister to Travis, also a dear niece and cousin’.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday at 11am in Ramseys Funeral Parlour, Larne.
The funeral notice adds: ‘Will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her loving family and friends’.
A tribute from her school, Larne High School, says: ‘Rachel Armstrong – Our Tribute – Rachel was truly unique—a bright light in every room she entered.
‘She will be remembered for her warm nature, her beautiful smile, and the gentle humour that always came with a twinkle in her eye.
‘Her laughter was delightful, and her company brought joy to everyone around her.
‘Rachel was kind and caring—a beautiful young lady inside and out.
‘She had a wonderful sense of humour, loved a wee joke, and was known for her cheeky banter.
‘She was full of fun and enjoyed winding up classroom assistants and sharing a laugh with friends - Rachel made every day brighter for those around her.
‘She loved her coffee and shortbread, and trips to Aroma for strawberry milkshakes were among her favourite treats.
‘A hardworking and dedicated student, Rachel took genuine pride in her learning.
‘Her enthusiasm for History shone through, and she displayed a natural talent for the subject.
‘She was at the top of the class and inspired others always to aim higher.
‘Rachel was smart beyond her years, with a curiosity and quiet determination that left a lasting impression on all who taught her.
‘Above all, she was a joy to teach and to be around’.
The tribute added: ‘A quiet nature yet fiercely spirited, Rachel had a voice that mattered.
‘She had many friends who thought the world of her, and her warmth and compassion touched everyone in our school community.
‘he was a ray of sunshine, a bright light, and also an irreplaceable part of our Autism Centre.
‘Her curiosity, kindness, and laughter will forever echo in our hearts.
‘Rachel had such a bright future ahead of her, and this beautiful young person with the cutest giggle will be so deeply missed.
‘We loved every moment we had with her and will cherish those memories forever.
‘Rachel had an unforgettable spirit and the most infectious laugh.
‘It was a privilege to know her, teach her and learn from her. Just last week in her English class, Rachel read beautifully from Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.”
Underneath the tribute friends said:
- ‘Heartbroken. Thank you for being you Rachel. The most special girl who’ll be missed by us all. So glad to have known you’
- ‘So heartbreaking thinking and praying for you all’
- ‘Heartbreaking news. Thinking of Rachel’s family, friends and school community. You will be forever in our hearts wee lady. So privileged to have known you and shared lots of giggles.Please be kind to yourselves and each other’
- ‘You will be forever in our hearts wee lady. So privileged to have known you and shared lots of giggles’