It is with great sadness that we announce the death of John Furlonger (1937–2026), former teacher at Oswestry School, who passed away peacefully, aged 89.

Mr Furlonger taught at Oswestry School for over 15 years during the 1990s. An English graduate of Cambridge University, John taught in Saudi Arabia, the Oman and Scotland before arriving in Oswestry with his young family in 1984. He left Oswestry School in 2000, having built a strong reputation as a caring and diligent English teacher, drama teacher and Careers Advisor.

His daughter Suzie said that he loved his time at Oswestry and was dedicated to ensuring that every pupil he taught passed their English GCSE. She said: “He was so diligent about getting every pupil a good English GCSE and was determined that no pupil was left behind. He was especially committed to giving those who struggled more time and attention — anything they needed to ensure they achieved at least a C grade.”

Not long after starting at Oswestry School, John established the Drama Club and soon began producing annual school plays, performed in the newly built PHC. As Careers Advisor, he also built a strong reputation for the school by establishing an annual careers convention, bringing industry professionals and higher education representatives to the school.

His contribution to Oswestry School was recognised upon his retirement in a farewell write-up in the 2001 edition of The Oswestrian magazine. The piece praised his many achievements, as well as his “ready wit and hilarious banter”, which were sorely missed by staff.

Mr Furlonger passed away peacefully at home in Scotland on January 17th, surrounded by his close family. He leaves his wife Beatrice and children Andrew and Susan.