Vale to true friend, teacher and gentleman: Bryan Durham

To many Bryan Durham will be remembered as a warm giving teacher, a dedicated volunteer and friend, but to his partner of 23 years Judith Ferber he will always be her first and last love.

TO MANY Bryan Durham will be remembered as a warm giving teacher, a dedicated volunteer and friend, but to his partner of 23 years Judith Ferber he will always be her first and last love.

The long time Miami Surf Life Saving Club member and Beaudesert State High School teacher passed away unexpectedly last week at 77 years of age, while on a trip to Uluru.

Ms Ferber said she was grateful to have shared a lifetime of laughs with Mr Durham before his passing.

“He was up here for 23 wonderful years with me,” Ms Ferber told the Bulletin.

“He was my first boyfriend when I was just 13 years old, he lived around the corner from me.

“He moved away to university but we came back together 23 years ago, he was my first and my last love,” she said through tears.

FULL DIGITAL ACCESS: JUST $5 A MONTH FOR THE FIRST THREE MONTHS

Judith Ferber with partner Bryan Durham. PicDavid/Clark

Described as a humble and incredibly intelligent man, Ms Ferber said he would be overwhelmed by the number of people who had reached out to share their memories.

Full of energy the teacher was an active member of the Miami Surf Life Saving Club assisting with the Surfcom radio program, was a justice of the peace and Miami Masters swimming club member – he had even walked the Kokoda Trail twice in his 60s.

Mr Durham was also known for his blinding support of the Sydney Swans, but like any good Gold Coast local he was also a member of the Titans and Suns.

“He had touched hundreds of lives. At 77 he was still teaching history, maths and English at Beaudesert, he was getting ready to go back again this year,” Ms Ferber said.

“Everyone called him a gentleman, he always taught manners.

“I truly can’t think of anyone who did as much in their time as he did.

“He had no children of his own but loved my family, who all adored him.

“He has left a legacy but would be so humble, he was always far more proud of others than himself.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COVID ON THE GOLD COAST

Beaudesert State high Schoolteacher Bryan Durham passed away while on a trip to Uluru.

“We used to laugh that when people die you never say horrible things, but for him it is true, you can’t say a bad word about him.”

Bryan Durham a passionate Swans fan. Picture: Pic for Peter and Regina Column The Inside Word GC Bulletin Pic supplied

Friend of nearly two decades Gold Coast paediatrician professor Darrell Price also spoke of Mr Durham’s humour and intelligence.

“He was a truly remarkable man and his passing is a huge loss not only to his family but to the community,” Prof Prince said.

“In addition to teaching children the curriculum, he taught them courtesy. He taught the dying practice of good manners such as shaking hands when meeting someone, and ensuring the girls left the classroom before the boys as a matter of politeness.

“His life was one of giving. His humour, his wit, his kindness and his polymathic, all-encompassing knowledge will be missed hugely by all who knew him.”

Former students also shared memories of their favourite teacher.

Judith Ferber and Bryan Durham were together for 23 years.

Ryan Archibald described Mr Durham as one of the best teachers and mentors for everyone at Beaudesert.

“He will be missed greatly and forever loved by all. He brightened up our lives.”

Jason Michael said he was still in shock.

“Not only will your legacy live on here at Beaudesert, but anywhere you have been,” Mr Michael said. “Hopefully your beloved Swans and Titans have a big year for you mate. May you rest in peace.”

Bryan Durham will be farewelled on Sunday the 17th at 3pm at Miami Surf Club.