The heartbroken family of a Darlington dad and popular teaching assistant has paid tributes after his sudden death.
Christopher Greaves, who had worked at Wyvern Academy in Branksome since 2009, was found dead on Thursday, July 7.
Last night, his wife Rachel urged those suffering from mental health problems to speak out as she said the family had been left “devastated.”
Describing the dad-of-five as a “bubbly gentleman”, she said he would be a huge miss to not only the family but to the pupils he worked with.
Read more: The Darlington school which has ditched branded uniform for ties made from recycled plastic
She told The Northern Echo: “Chris was very family-orientated. He was a gentleman.
“He had such a bubbly personality and sadly took his own life after his mental health declined.
“I just want other people to know that if they’re struggling please speak up and get help.
“He was very popular at Wyvern, everyone loved him. They (pupils) understood him and he understood them. It’s just devastating what he’s left behind.”
Christopher, who was 47-years-old, leaves behind his wife Rachel, and their five children, Elizabeth, 26, Hannah, 24, William, 21, Oliver 17, and Edward, 16.
He had also been grandfather to Ciaran, Harry, Grace and Lily.
Read more: 'They were just in bits': Dance kids left stranded for 26 hours at airport abroad
A higher-level teaching assistant, he taught maths to children with special educational needs.
“He has left behind his legacy, our beautiful children,” Rachel said.
Rachel also explained how her husband had been a lover of the outdoors and had played for Mowden Rugby Club in his younger days.
Read more: Shop accused of selling illegal goods will be staying shut for even longer
A crowdfunding page has been set up in Chris' memory, https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-christopher-greaves
The page was set up with the intention of the money raised to go toward the unexpected funeral costs.
Chris’ funeral will be held at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, Cockerton, Darlington, on Thursday, July 28 at 1pm with a wake at Mowden Rugby Club afterwards.
At the family’s request, all those in attendance should wear bright colours.
If you are in need of support you can contact the following:
- Samaritans is available, day or night, 365 days of the year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
- If U Care Share on 0191 387 5661 or text IUCS to 85258
- SANE on 07984 967 708, Calm on 0800 58 58 58
- Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust crisis line 0800 0516 171.
--
Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
You can also follow our dedicated Darlington Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.
For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.
Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel