TRIBUTES have flooded in for a popular teacher who died unexpectedly, aged just 43.
Gabrielle Bruen, pictured, was head of art and design at Southampton City College. She discovered dead at her home in Winchester.
Last night the circumstances surrounding her death remained a mystery but police said they were not treating it as suspicious.
College bosses have now offered counselling to students who have been upset by her death.
A spokesman for Southampton City College said: “All college staff, governors and students were very saddened to learn that Gabby died at the weekend.
“Gabby was well loved, much liked and she will be very sadly missed. The thoughts of the whole college community are with her family and friends at this very difficult time.”
Dozens of tributes have since been posted on an online condolence book on the college’s website from friends, students and staff who described Ms Bruen as an “amazing teacher”.
Corinnna Knox, said: “Gabby was an extremely kind and approachable member of college staff. She always seemed so cheerful. My thoughts go out to her friends and family. RIP Gabby.”
Jonathan Smith, said: “I am deeply saddened by the sudden death of Gabby. I’m proud to have known such a kind, warm and brilliant person. My prayers and thoughts are with her and with those she left behind.”
Alexander Elliott-Welch, added: “Gabby is a very talented art headmistress, and we’ll all miss her talents, very much.”
Neighbours described seeing four police cars outside Gabby’s home in Portal Road on Saturday afternoon after her body was found. Officers took statements from nearby homes.
One neighbour, who did not want to be named, said the family was “devastated”. She added she had left flowers at the property but still had no idea how she died.
An inquest into her death has been opened and adjourned by the central Hampshire coroner. Neither police nor the coroner would comment further.
Her funeral is due to take place at Basingstoke Crematorium on March 19 at 2.45pm. As a mark of respect, no art and design classes will take place at Southampton City College on that date.
Flowers can be sent to the funeral directors Jno Steel and Son Ltd, Chesil Street, Winchester.
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