Tribute paid to Ballyclare teacher

Dr Austin Walter Millar (55) passed away peacefully at home on March 19.

Paying tribute, a spokesperson for the Rashee Road school, said: “The Ballyclare High School community is deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, colleague and teacher.

“Austin commenced his teaching career in the school on September 1 1995. He faithfully and consistently served the school community over the last 25 years.

“Austin was born in April 1964 to the late Walter and Jean Millar of Ard Na Maine, Cullybackey and was twin brother of the late Audrey Reid and brother-in-law of Kelvin.

“After reading for a BSc in Botany and Genetics at Queen’s University Belfast, he remained there to complete his PhD in Genetics, before going on to attain a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. As a newly qualified teacher in 1995 he quickly established himself in the school in his role as teacher of Biology and Junior Science.

“He developed a particularly strong rapport with pupils and staff alike. As a young member of staff Austin assumed responsibility for pupil lockers and became affectionately known as ‘the locker man’.”

A widely read and thoughtful individual as well as an esteemed statistician, Austin was promoted to the role of senior teacher in 2007.

The spokesperson added: “His prodigious abilities in data analysis and examination statistics are renowned in the profession and his work was shared with many schools across Northern Ireland. One of his endearing qualities was his humorous style of presentation which proved to be highly popular with pupils, parents and staff alike.

“Austin also contributed fulsomely to the school’s extra-curricular programme. His love of cricket was infectious, and he was a dedicated umpire.

“He prided himself on his detailed knowledge of the laws of the game and enjoyed applying that knowledge on the cricket pitch. We fondly recall the extravagance of his hand gestures, especially when signalling a four, particularly in 1st XI vs Old Boys encounters.

“His distinctive Tilley hat and body warmer conjure up warm memories of his enjoyment of his sport on sunny summer afternoons. Several colleagues remember with fondness travelling with Austin to watch test matches and the lively debates he ‘chaired.’  

“From 1997 to 1999 Austin was assistant scout leader of 1st Ballyclare Scouts (based in the school) and he progressed to the role of scout leader, a position he proudly held from 1999 to 2007.

“During this time, he is remembered for successfully introducing archery to the troop and school, developing excellent relationships with Muckamore Company of Archers, and securing funding for equipment.

“The annual Year 8 Languages educational trip was something he looked forward to. He thoroughly enjoyed seeing hundreds of pupils gaining a first-hand experience of foreign language and culture and colleagues enjoyed hearing anecdotes of his travels upon his return.

“Austin’s passing will leave a huge gap in our hearts as a school community, but his memory and admirable values of integrity, justice and love will live on in our Ballyclare High family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his brother-in-law Kelvin, and his wider family circle.”

The house and funeral will be private. Donations in lieu of flowers were encouraged to the Macmillan Unit, Antrim Area Hospital (c/o James Henry Funeral Services, 100 Broughshane Street, Ballymena BT43 6EE), in memory of Austin’s late sister Audrey Reid.