A FORMER head teacher from York has died after a year-long battle with cancer, aged 82.

John McCreadie, of Fulford, passed away peacefully at The Beaumont Home in Stamford Bridge. He is survived by his wife Ann, three sons, Andrew, Douglas and Marcus, brother Terence, granddaughters Elizabeth, Fiona and Emily, grandsons Matthew and Alex and great-grandsons William and Edward. Mr McCreadie was head of The Royal Philanthropic Society School in Redhill, Surrey and later at Sedbury Park, Gloucestershire, but he also served as deputy director for social services for Gloucestershire County Council.

His family said he would always by remembered for his fierce intelligence, quick wit and larger than life presence.

“A devout Catholic, John’s strong faith sustained him throughout his life and provided immeasurable comfort toward the end of his journey,” his family said.

The funeral is at 10.30am on Wednesday at St George’s RC Church in Peel Street, York.