The sudden death of a popular science teacher who drowned in rough waters has shattered a community.
Leigh Lemmon worked at St Joseph’s Catholic High School in Albion Park in the Illawarra region, but had been on holiday in Nethercote on the far south coast of NSW over the Christmas holidays.
The 53-year-old entered the Yowaka River on January 4 and began struggling with the current.
His body was pulled from the water by rescuers and despite their desperate efforts he could not be revived.
A family friend said his death was “an absolute shock and something no one could ever imagine or prepare for.”
There has been an outpouring of grief following the sudden death of Leigh Lemmon (pictured) on January 4
Mr Lemmon (right) had taught physics at St Joseph’s Catholic High School in Albion Park, and his wife Carmen (left) said her husband loved his work
Students and colleagues paid tribute to the man known for his exceptional ‘experiments’ that earned him the nicknames Rocket Man and the Quantum Navigator.
“Mr. Lemmon, whatever universe you’re traveling through now; quantum or cosmic, thanks,” wrote one former student.
‘I will continue to look at the starry sky with your curiosity and I hope to meet you there again someday. Quantum Cadet, forever in training.”
Another said: “May his memory always warm your heart and dry your tears. Goodbye Mr. Lemmon Quantum Navigator.”
A third student added that Mr. Lemmon was a teacher who could not only nourish the minds but also win the hearts of his students.
“Not only did he help me do my best in physics, but he also provided thoughts and ideologies that really influenced my worldview,” the former student said.
“He is a person I look up to and respect very much, not only as a mentor but as a friend.”
St Joseph’s Catholic High School also posted dozens of photos of Mr Lemmon, showing the elaborate experiments he would create for his classes.
Former colleagues of Mr. Lemmon shared more than 30 photos on Facebook showing the elaborate experiments he would set up for students in his class
Students and colleagues paid tribute to the man known for his exceptional ‘experiments’ and nicknamed Rocket Man and the Quantum Navigator
In the post, Mr. Lemmon’s former colleagues spoke of his ability to teach and inspire the best of those around him.
“His unique qualities made him stand out as an exceptional teacher, and he will be deeply missed by our entire community,” they wrote.
“He was a true mentor who inspired his students to think outside the box and pursue their passions.”
His wife Carmen commented on the post and thanked the school for capturing “his heart and soul.”
“May his desire to think out-of-the-box and his inquisitive nature continue to do so inspire children,” she said.
Lara Davis, a family friend, launched a GoFundMe to ease the financial burden on Mr. Lemmon’s wife and their two children following his death. In the photo: Mr. Lemmon
“I always told my husband that if he could inspire one child, change one child’s life, he had done his job.”
Longtime family friend Lara Davis launched one GoFundMe to help cover Mr. Lemmon’s funeral expenses.
“Leigh was a lovable larrikin,” Mrs. Davis wrote.
“He loved his wife and children more than anything in the world, was a big softie with Bentley, the family dog, and loved teaching science, and enjoyed watching the students grow and learn.”