Video: Caledonia High School Remembers A Special Teacher

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CALEDONIA, Miss. (WCBI) –  It’s a sudden loss for the town of Caledonia.
Students and teachers are reflecting on the death of one of their own.
Terry Wiygul taught at the high school for nearly 2 decades, before she was diagnosed with cancer.

“She loved to learn. She made life about learning,” said colleague and friend Sherry McReynolds.

This is how many remember Terry Wiygul.

She taught at Caledonia High School for 17 years.

Wiygul passed away after a short battle with cancer this past Wednesday.

But in her 52 years of life, she inspired many educators and students.

“She was so passionate about what she did here, but she was passionate about everything she did. She loved her job, she loved teaching, she loved the students, she loved her family beyond belief and she would go the extra mile for anybody,” said colleague and friend Christi Carter.

Wiygul taught science classes. Her colleagues say the subject fit for her go-getter personality.

“She was so driven about everything and I think science was the perfect thing for her because it’s all about discovery and she was constantly wanting to know more and discover more,” added Carter.

Throughout her years of teaching, Wiygul was named “Teacher of the Year” and “Star Teacher” several times.

Her students say she left a lasting legacy.

“Mrs. Wiygul is going to affect all of my future decisions. She really loved her students as much as she loved her work and it was obvious,” said her student Ian Hartmann.

Students credit her motivating personality for their drive to be successful.

“She worked hard at what she did and she didn’t let obstacles get in her way. She kept going and I think for me, it’s so easy to give up and she never allowed me to and that has really affected who I am today,” said student Chelsea Lester.

And one thing is sure, those who knew the long time educator will never forget her.

“It’s best said in the words of our own principal. He said, ‘she will be followed but she will never be replaced,'” added McReynolds.

“It’s going to be lonely here without her. She is irreplaceable, she was a true friend,” said Carter.

There is a Go Fund Me account set up to help the Wiygul family with unexpected costs.

http://www.gofundme.com/srcarg8