‘Beloved’ teacher — a devoted North Carolina mom — dies on Mother’s Day at age 35
A beloved North Carolina teacher and devoted mom to a young daughter died on Mother’s Day at age 35, her obituary said.
Sydney Bailey is remembered as a “brilliant writer” who made her mark on those who attended North Henderson High School in Hendersonville.
“Sydney was involved in her students’ lives as much more than a teacher,” her obituary on the Shuler Funeral Home website said. “She was a confidant, mentor, safe space, and friend.”
But Bailey’s loved ones said her life was cut short about six years after she was diagnosed with brain cancer. She was 35 years old.
Now, the high school where she worked is mourning the “tremendous loss,” the Hendersonville Times-News reported.
“She was an exceptional teacher, artist and teammate,” Principal John Shepard told the newspaper. “Most importantly, Mrs. Bailey was a fantastic mother to her daughter and a mentor to her students. Her impact on the students of North Henderson will live on for years to come.”
Bailey was born in Miami, Florida, but for the most part grew up in the North Carolina mountains. She became known as a natural-born writer who carved a path for herself in the theater world.
“Having been raised by thespians certainly helped shape her craft, but the simple truth is that Sydney was born to be an artist,” her obituary said.
Even as she experienced “constant physical and emotional discomfort,” she showed dedication to her family and her career, according to her husband, Jeff Thompson.
“She continued to find humor and playfulness in everything, and to help others do the same,” he wrote on Facebook. “Reading over the many letters and emails and texts from her former students that are rolling in lately, I am moved to tears.”
Henderson County Public Schools didn’t immediately share additional information with McClatchy News on May 24. The district is based in Hendersonville, roughly 25 miles south of the mountain town of Asheville.
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