The obituary notice of Jean Margaret SCHMALE

I remember Mrs. Schmale. I was in her first ever class, that was at Abbey Road Infants School in Bearwood, Smethwick in 1950-51. I was a shy little boy lost (6+), she was fresh out of teacher's training collage (20). I adored her, I used to wait on her front step in the mornings (she lived in the same road as us [Galton Road]. Unfortunately she left Abbey Road after only a year and I lost track of her for many years. When I did track her down she knew instantly who I was. Oh, fond memories.
Rod Farbrother, Düsseldorf, Germany

A legend of a teacher. My love for music and my handwriting is all down to you. Rest in peace. You were an absolute and utter inspiration.

Were you (or your parent or grandparent) at West Heath Primary School c1958 - 1982? Do you remember Mrs Jean Schmale who was head of music as well as being a class teacher? Jean has recently died and her funeral is on Thursday 31st January at 1pm at St Laurence, Northfield, B31 2LX. Parking in the Pastoral Centre car-park.

At the moment it is looking as though it will be a very small funeral but we'd love to fill the church, especially with the sound of the hymns she has requested which include The Lord's my Shepherd to the traditional tune of Crimond, 'O lord Most High' to the tune of 'How great thou art' and we are also singing 'Jerusalem'. The service will last about 40 minutes.

Even if you didn't know Jean but enjoy a good sing, please do come and 'cheer her on her way' and gives thanks for your primary school teachers too!

You made learning a life long love - thank you for being a truly inspirational teacher. Elizabeth

So sorry to hear about th me loss of Mrs Shcmale, she taught me at West Heath primary in the 80’s Louisa Wilks