Tributes pour for Carrum Primary School crossing supervisor Terry De-Fry

Carrum Primary School families and staff are mourning the death of their beloved crossing supervisor, who is being remembered for his “kindness” and “infectious smile”.

The Carrum Primary School community is mourning the loss of much-loved school crossing supervisor Terry De-Fry. Picture: Facebook

The Carrum Primary School community is mourning the death of its beloved crossing supervisor, who is being remembered for his “kindness” and “infectious smile”.

Terry De-Fry, who has been the school’s longstanding crossing and traffic supervisor, died on Wednesday night.

Principal Clem Langford said in a letter to families that Mr De-Fry was “well-loved” by the community, and that he would be “sorely missed” by staff and families.

“Our thoughts go out to his family at this difficult time,” she said.

Dozens of tributes have also poured in for Mr De-Fry on social media, with families saying that Mr De-Fry’s “smile, waves and greetings” had been a hallmark of the school crossing on Walkers Rd for many years.

“Terry loved chatting with the kids and students of all ages, even as they grew up and went onto high school it was lovely to see them still give him a shout out and wave as they went past,” one mother wrote.

Another parent said: “Shattered to hear this news but I take comfort in knowing he didn’t have to retire from crossing supervisor.”

“He loved seeing everyone everyday and was able to do it right up until the end,” she said.

“One of the most genuine and kind people you’d ever meet – always asking about the older kids who had moved on to high school,” another added.

“An absolute icon of the Carrum Primary School community.”

Kingston Councillor Cameron Howe, who is a former student of the school, said: “Some people in our community in a small way contribute in a far larger way to the wellbeing and safety of our residents.”

“Everyone that has walked with the supervision of this great man, would be sending their thoughts to his family,” Cr Howe said.

“I’m sure that everyone who is affiliated with Carrum Primary School would be devastated by this tragic loss.”

Originally published as Tributes pour for Carrum Primary School crossing supervisor Terry De-Fry