In loving memory of James Neil McKenzie who sadly passed away on 7th February 2021, aged 72 years.
Neil was born in Liverpool in 1948, the youngest of 3 children. Leaving school in 1965, his testimonial described him as "of general average ability" - but noted his 'quiet effectiveness which with growing maturity can lead to his achieving the full potentiality of his gifts". I think this may be the only documented description of him being quiet!!
He dedicated his life to teaching and primary education. His first teaching post came in 1969 at St Matthew's RC Primary School in Skelmersdale, Merseyside - a posting that had a profound impact in shaping his personal and professional life. At the school, he became Deputy Head in 1974 under the guidance of Jack Baron, his friend and mentor, until 1979 when he was appointed to his first headteacher role in Kent.
He was head of St Edward's RC school in Sheerness from 1979 until 1990 when he accepted the headship of St Thomas of Canterbury RC school in Rainham, where he remained until his retirement from education (at least on a full time basis).
It's difficult to capture adequately the impact he had in his career. Perhaps it is best summarised by the number of former pupils and teachers who have been in touch with our family since he passed away. They describe him as a headteacher who endeavoured to give every pupil the best possible start to their education (albeit instilling a little fear every now and then!) and a fierce champion of his staff, building a working environment to enable teachers to teach. That legacy is also reflected in the lasting friendships with many parents and teachers over the course of his 30+ years as a head.
As mentioned above, his personal life was also shaped by school. Neil met Susan Livesey in the staffroom of St Matthew's. They were married in Wigan in 1971 and would have celebrated their 50th Anniversary in April this year. He was her constant source of strength and love through her adult life, facing the many challenges to health and wellbeing at her side.
Neil is survived by Susan, his son Andrew, Nicola and grandchildren Alice and Emma, whom he loved deeply.
His funeral is set for Friday 9th April. Sadly, lockdown guidelines mean the ceremony will be severely restricted to close family and friends. However, once lockdown is over, there will be a social event to celebrate his life properly - all will be welcome.
Mr McKenzie was a teacher at st Matthew's about 1970. I remember taking notes up to miss livesey up in the infants part of the school. He was a fabulous teacher, I still remember him fondly. He taught us "Spinners" songs when he played his guitar. Very very fond memories of a lovely man. My belated condolences to miss livesey and family xx
Love Lynn and family
Love from Lynn and family
In Loving Memory of a dear friend and neighbour. Rest in Peace.
In Loving Memory of a dear friend and neighbour. Rest in Peace.
I'm privileged to have so many great memories of our times together, highs and lows. Driving school buses (including a holiday camp trip and a netball competion), jumping out of an airplane, frightening the kids (and some parents!) By playing Bill Sykes opposite you as Fagin and Celia as Nancy, and only possible because Sue taught me how to 'sing'! School fairs, sharing Sundays at each others homes, our kids hanging out with Andrew. My Isle of Sheppey days were some of my best ever, much of that due to our friendship.
You remain in my memories and your friendship, in my heart. Cheers me dears!
Lovely memories of a brilliant head teacher. Who taught the children integrity, peace and love and who was so supportive to our family when Kevin passed away. Up with the angels dressed as Elvis singing to Elton. Rest in peace Neil, condolences to the family.
Goodnight and God Bless Neil, going to miss you a lot xx
Rest in peace Neil
Rest in peace Neil
RIP Neil
Rest in Peace Neil. Thanks for some great memories. 🕯xx
RIP Neil x
RIP Neil x
RIP Neil x
Remembering a wonderful friend and colleague when we worked together at Kent
Adult Education. Neil didnt suffer fools gladly but was always there to support in any way he could if ever there was a problem. I will miss you Neil and rest in peace my dear friend. Xxx
In memory of a very dear friend. Rest in peace, Neil.
RIP Neil . Sadly missed. God Bless
So sad. It was a privilege to have worked with you Neil.
So many happy memories. Full of fun and madcap ideas.
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Rest in Peace.
M
I am so very sorry to hear of Mr Mckenzie's passing he showed me a great kindness when I was a pupil at St Edwards, I was pleased to be able to exchange messages him personally about 18 months ago and thank him for all he did for my family.
Please accept my sincere condolences there will be many I'm sure that will remember his good soul and how much he cared for his school staff and pupils
With kind regards
Veronica
RIP Neil
I will never forget the kindness and support you gave me and my girls during a difficult time . Thank you xx
A trip back to St. Thomas’ together a few years ago. Beautiful day, happy memories. Go gently, Boss.
A trip back to St. Thomas’ together a few years ago. Beautiful day, happy memories. Go gently, Boss.
Neil (bottom left) with his family - Eileen & Ron (parents), brother Ron and sister Angela.
Father & Son
The staff of St Edwards in Neil's first year as headteacher (1979)
The staff of St Matthew's RC school (mid-1970's).
Neil & Susan's wedding day, with Neil's parents
Dad's retirement
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