Jenny Rowse, who was the principal of St George Girls High School from 1985 to 1992, passed away at Maitland on Sunday, February 21.
Ms Rowse went to school in Newcastle, attending the San Clemente Catholic School before studying at Sydney University.
She began her teaching career at Griffith High School and taught at various schools, including Blacktown Girls High School, Petersham Girls High School and Sydney Girls High School.
She was the deputy principal of Davidson High School before her appointment at St George Girls High School.
Many tributes have been left on the St Georgians Facebook site fondly recalling Ms Rowse.
The current St George Girls High School principal, Mrs Betty Romeo, said, "I feel so humbled to follow a long line of strong female leaders who have diligently guided our school during their principalship. I want to acknowledge the outstanding service and commitment that Ms Rowse provided for the staff and the high potential and gifted learners at St George Girls High School. She was a highly respected leader and this is evident in the fond memories that have been shared since her passing."
Former St George Girls High School teacher Anne Field (Social Science 1977-2011) said, "Jenny Rowse leaves a huge legacy to St George Girls and its former students. She is remembered fondly and with respect.
"She was a colourful personality as school principal, who led the school with vigour and a determination that the students will achieve. And achieve they did. She was a fair principal. She was always well presented and kept herself in shape with her yoga. She loved her trips to Hong Kong, where she had friends who lived near the Peak."
Ms Rowse was described in the book Independent Minds - A History of St George Girls High School' by Pauline Curby, published on the school's 100th anniversary in 2016: "She was very fussy about uniform but also inspirational and dramatic in her appeals for the 'ladies'."
Many comments were also left by former students St Georgians Facebook site. One said, "I'm sure that many of you will recall the indomitable stare and a voice that stopped you in your tracks if you were wearing non-sanctioned jewellery. She was a very caring woman who worked hard to ensure everyone at St George achieved their best."
One of the former students declared that the principal introduced her to feminism, while another described her as a wonderful woman, a true feminist who had a great way of instilling confidence and bravery in us "ladies".
Another said, "She was a strong, admirable woman. A great role model for us girls."
