A Funeral Service for Mr John Cooper WORRALL will be held at St. John’s Anglican Church, KERANG on TUESDAY (29th July, 2025) commencing at 11:00am.
Location of Church can be found here
A Private Cremation will follow.
We wish to encourage you to express your sympathies and condolences to the family via a post on this announcement which the family are able to access and read.
(All messages are pending the approval of staff to avoid inappropriate content).
John’s Service will be live streamed on TUESDAY (29th July, 2025) commencing at 11.00am.
Please click on the Live Stream Tab on our main page where the service will be streamed live on TUESDAY.
Deepest condolences to Judy, Katrina, Martin, Samantha and their families.
Remembering an amazing person who gave so much to the school and wider community.
Rest in peace John.
Gill Knox.
So very sad to hear of the passing of Mr Worrall.
My sincere sympathy and condolences to Mrs Worrall and family.
It’s over 50 years ago now that he taught me in science at the KTHS. He was always very kind to me.
I’ll never forget that and also the wonderful way that he taught us. He made Science class interesting.
I’ll never forget Mr Worrall.
Love and prayers to the family. 🙏
A truly memorable man – character, dedication and inspirational – thanks for the memories.
Dear Judy and family on the sad loss of John.
It has been inspiring reading over the comments from the Kerang Community. A life well loved and lived.
Sorry we were unable to attend John’s farewell.
With love from your cousins Peter, Jill (Olive), Alan and Ross Murray.
To the Worrall family, my heartfelt condolences. John was a vibrant, passionate, sometimes scary but ultimately caring person who somehow made everything way more enjoyable than it should have been. He fills so many of my best memories of Kerang. Rest in peace John.
My sincerest sympathy to Judy & family for your loss of John. He was a well respected teacher when Cameron, Kirolie & Nerida were at High School.
Cheryl 💐❤️
Such a larger than life character and very gifted teacher. I can still remember what he taught me 35 years ago in biology which is an incredible testimony to the way he taught. I’m so grateful for his time spent leading the school operetta and choir as I loved my time getting involved, You gave so much to Kerang and to your students. Rest peacefully. Amy Purdue (Campbell)
As a recent Past President of Kerang Music Society (KMS), I wish to acknowledge John Worrall’s enormous contribution, over half a century, to Music and the Arts in Kerang through KMS. He willingly took on many leadership roles, such as: Conductor of the Choir, President of the Society for many years, and enthusiastic organiser of concerts, the annual Kerang Eisteddfod and Evensongs. He was also a leading voice in the Tenor section of the Choir. In partnership with his wife Judy, their musicality, energy and commitment were an inspiration and encouragement to all members. We mourn John’s death but recognise that it is a blessed relief from his debilitating illness in his final years. Undoubtedly, he is now in God’s care and leading a Heavenly Chorus! We send our deep condolences, love and prayers to Judy, Kayte, Marty, Sam and all the family.
To Judy, Katrina, Marty, Samantha and families,
Our deepest sympathy to you all on John’s passing.
John was a wonderful teacher, preacher and choir leader. I know Mum and Dad always enjoyed church when John was leading both the service and /or the music. We were grateful that John could participate in Mum’s funeral service.
Now singing in the heavenly choirs with Dad.
The Dee family.
Dear Judy, I was sad to hear of your dear John’s passing. He was an intelligent, warm, and spiritual man and he will be greatly missed by many.
My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Much love,
Jane.
Judy & family. My thoughts are with you all. John always offered good moral support. Apologies for not being able to attend his farewell. Marilyn
Dear Judy and family I was saddened by John’s passing
He was kind and caring to my mother he always had a
smile and hello the hymns at church at will miss his voice
R.I.P John🙏
Sincere condolences to Judy and families on the sad passing away of John. Thinking of you all from Greg and Cheryl Gin and families.
School operetta producer / director, Biology teacher, Church choir leader, a larger-than-life character.
The school operettas that ‘Mr. Worrall’ produced and directed were for me, and my dear friend, Kerry Hogan, nee Oliver (deceased) highlights of our time at KTHS. Kerry absolutely starred in the lead roles and I developed my confidence, love of performing and musical theatre from taking part in them. I remember Mr. Worrall pacing the floor of Thornley Hall during rehearsals, munching on peppermints, giving directions and raising his voice when we forgot our lines or cues. We sometimes wondered if the shows would ever come together but under his strong leadership and guidance, they always did.
As a teacher, Mr. Worrall was firm but fair. He often used humour to illustrate a point. I recall him standing in front of our biology class with a wet paper towel on his head to demonstrate osmosis, believing we would never forget either the image or the concept and I never have! I also remember debating the correct pronunciation of the word ‘graph’ with him. When I struggled with my studies, he encouraged me to continue.
In St. John’s church choir he urged us to sing hymns loudly and with gusto and I think of him whenever I do.
I offer my sincere sympathy to Mrs. Worrall (Judy), Katrina, Martin, Samantha and families and my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Worrall for everything he taught me.
Dear Judy & Family
Deepest sympathy on Johns passing My thoughts and prayers are with you all. One of Gods disciples now resting in peace
Shalom Chaverim Mr Worrall – I’ll always appreciate your enthusiasm in my contribution to church choir and band & school operettas – we all knew I was a “work in progress” 😬. Thank you for always making me part of the group, I always felt included. Sending all my love to Katie, Marty, Sam and Judy – rest in peace xxxxxx
judy , So sorry to hear of Johns passing,.
I learn’t so much from him at choir over 15 or so years.
Rip with jesus ,John
Deepest sympathy to Judy and family.
It was a privilege to be a teaching associate of John who was an educational leader and inspiration to all, both staff and students.
Respectfully remembered by Ken and Diane Butler. RIP John.
To Judy, Katrina, Marty and Sam,
My thoughts are with you at this sad time. I remember John for being such an integral part of the KTHS music program when I first came to Kerang, years of wonderful operettas our students enjoyed, musicals, being a KSPS parent, and even aqua aerobics. He has left a wonderful legacy and will be greatly missed.
With deepest sympathy.
Lyn
A valued colleague for many years. Always a gentleman, kind and a wise counsel. Lots of good times and a force to be reckoned with. Thoughts to Judy, Katie, Martin and Samantha and family as you remember and revisit your memories together. Vale John. Pam Campbell
To Judy, Katie, Marty and Sam, our love and best wishes at this time. Such fond memories over many, many years of John as a friend, a colleague, School Productions, St John’s Church, the choir and band. May he rest in peace.
Deepest sympathies to the whole Worrall family on the passing of your dear husband and father. I will always think of Mr. Worrall as a firm, kind and respected teacher and later, colleague.
The curtain has come down for a man who raised it for so many. He has left his community a better place for having lived such a giving life within it.
For those of us lucky enough to have had him as a teacher or Operetta Director, he helped us to thrive.
My deepest condolences to his family and to his community.
May he visit you often in your dreams and live vividly in your memories.
I’m going to talk about John as a teaching colleague – and friend – at his funeral on Tuesday. Grant, do you mind if I quote a bit of the comments you make here? They’re spot-on.
With agnowledgement, of course.
Geoff Sinclair
Deepest sympathy to the Worrall family on the passing of John .. His gifts to our community will never be forgotten , and we are grateful .
Condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr Worrall. He was a wonderful teacher, always so full of energy.
Warmest regards – Annie Coobs
Our deepest sympathy to you Judy and family on the sad passing of John. Fond memories of Kerang Music Society Choir and John’s strong Tenor voice leading us on.
Lyn and Keith Millar
Sincere condolences to Judy and the family on the passing of John. I particularly remember John’s lovely tenor voice enriching the Music Society Choir.
Julie Hall.
Mr Worrall was a inspiration for his teaching at Kerang High School. The choir and music was his biggest, passionate love. Thinking of you all sending love and prayers 🙏
Love Maryann (McCalman) Rawlins.
Dear Judy and family-our deepest sympathy to you all on the passing of John. Our thoughts are with you all.
Dearest Judy and families,
Sorry to hear of John passing away. I will always remember his strong tenor voice, behind me usually in our Choir line up. Rest in peace now.
Love from Jo Fisher and Family x
Deepest sympathy and condolences to the entire Worrall family. My Sisters- Tracey, Kathy and Heidi all have very fond memories of Mr Worrall and the family. A wonderful caring and inspiring man. Mr Worrall and the family always held a special place in my families heart. RIP Mr Worrall. Prayers and thoughts with all the family.
Lisa Martin.
Deepest condolences to the Worrall family. I only remember a handful of teachers from my school years and ‘Mr Worrall’ was one of those special ones. Even after forty or so years I can still picture him standing in a cooking apron although I can’t remember when or the occasion. He inspIred my scientific mind and that is the sign of a fantastic teacher. RIP Mr Worrall, a gentleman and a scholar.
Judy, Marty, Kat & Sam,
Time stopped for a moment when I heard the news of John’s passing. I was shocked by the sheer volume of lovely memories and learnings I was gifted by him.
I have never reflected just how significant the impact John has had on my life until this week, but undoubtedly he was the rising tide that raised all boats for us creative minds growing up in Kerang.
My sadness for your loss is significant, as the world is short of these special people.
With Love, Dan.
Thoughts, prayers and sympathy are with Judy, Marty, Katrina and Samantha and families at this sad time. John was always a very happy man who greeted people either down the street or at church. Treasure the memories you all have.
Sincere sympathies to Judy and families he was a great man .. John use to visit Allan when he was in hospital for 2 months in Kerang ..We valued his friendship .A great neighbour for many years …You will be sadly missed .. Sorry Judy unable to make it to the service as medical appointment ..Love and prayers to you all 🙏💐💐
To Judy, deepest sympathy to you and to all John’s family here and in the UK. My Mum and Dad, Bette and Ken, were made so welcome and were such good friends to you all. Happy memories at St. John’s, eisteddfods, school operettas, teaching etc. A life well lived.
Love from Dianne (Helsham).
Judy, Katrina, Martin, Samantha and families, our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very sad time. I have fond memories working with John at KTHS, an inspiring teacher who knew his craft.
Sending love and deepest sympathies.
Rest peacefully John.
To Judy, Katrina, Marty, Samantha and families,
Our deepest sympathies to you all on John’s passing.
An inspiring, enthusiastic teacher, mentor and choir master.
He certainly had us pumped when singing with that strong voice of his.
From
Geoff & Fiona, Ross Kendell & families.
To Mrs Worrall (Judy), Katrina, Marty and Samantha,
Deepest sympathy on the passing of John. Memories of the Operettas, the High School band of Jamp and Grendel. May you rest in peace John.
Sincere sympathy from Joy, Robert and Annette Taylor.
To the Worrall family our condolences to you on the loss of a great teacher, a great man.
Mr Worrall you will be missed. RIP.
My deepest condolences to Judy, Katie, Martin, Samantha and all the family.
John was the most influential person in shaping my teaching during the late 80s and early 90s. He had a gift for knowing exactly when to be kind, funny, firm, thoughtful, inclusive and caring – always striking the right balance. As a nervous first-time teacher, I felt instantly welcomed by him. He encouraged me to get involved in extra-curricular activities, which helped me feel part of the teaching team and the broader school community. He listened, he took action, and he mentored – sometimes subtly, sometimes very directly – but always with genuine care and wisdom. John’s passion for teaching and his ability to find practical, achievable solutions to the challenges we faced were inspiring. (Even after 36 years, I still think the way he ran the Curriculum Committee was exceptional.) His commitment to educating the ‘whole child’ left a lasting impression on me and is something I’ve tried to carry forward in my own teaching. Thank you, John. I feel incredibly fortunate to have known you.
Dear Judy and family,
We were saddened to learn of John’s passing.
I remember well the years we spent at KTHS teaching together.
Rest in peace John, a life well lived.
Joe and Beryl Tartaglia ❤️❤️
Dear Judy, Marty, Sam and Kayte and all the families,
Wishing you our sincerest condolences at the passing of John. At this sad time, remember those of us that knew John and the joy he brought to all our lives. We feel so lucky to have met John (and Judy, Marty and Sam) in my early career as the “new music teacher” at Kerang Tech High School in 1995-1999. Having the privilege to work with John and teaching Marty and Sam was awesome. I remember fondly the school musicals and John “going out with a bang” presenting West Side Story. He was so proud of all the shows and really wanted to do that one. Thank you for the memories and the lessons I learnt back then as an educator have stayed with me all throughout my career.
Wishing you all love and prayers in your grief and may John’s legacy live on through you all.
Our deepest sympathies from John and Alison Gill.
Dear Judy so sorry for your loss a friend and neighbour for so many years .John was a amazing man we also remember John visiting Allan every day while he was in hospital he was a very caring man RIP beautiful man 🙏🙏
To Judy, Katie, Sam and Marty and families, John was many things to so many. He had a beautiful singing voice, teacher, refugee advocate and leader of St John’s for many years. Always had a positive and encouraging word when he was well. Rest in Peace John. 🙏
Deepest sympathy to the family on the loss of my old teacher Mr Worrall, may he rest in peace. xx
Wonderful memories of KTHS operetta’s and science classes. Always loved watching him sing in the community choir as he’d get so ‘in’ to the songs. Thinking of Judy, Katrina, Samantha, Martin and families at this time.
Condolences to Judy & family on the loss of that special person in their lives, John Cooper. May he rest in peace now.
From Sharlene Harding, Direct Care Worker.
My very sincere condolences to the Worrall family on the passing of John.
So many wonderful memories of John’s work with school operettas and music.
Also, the many hours that John dedicated to community education through my time at Kerang Learning Centre.
A very sad time but RIP John.
Forever ingrained in my memory is (part of) the song we learnt in biology about ‘the cell, the cell the simple cell…’ & I know I’ve inflicted what I learnt about ‘xylem & floem vessels’ (not sure that’s how they’re spelt!!) to my unsuspecting customers, when explaining how best to kill weeds to make the poison get through more effectively!! Thankyou John (Mr.Worrall) & for your enthusiasm with musical theatre 🎭 Much love & sympathy to Judy, Katie, Marty & Sam & their families. He may be gone physically, but will definitely live on!! A legend😊
Much love to all of the Worrall family at this sad time. May memories pop to mind and bring a smile to your heart as you journey through grief.
Lots of love & prayers from Ann & Michael Douthat.
Condolences to John’s family. I remember him as an English teacher at Kerang in the early 90s.
Fond memories of Mr Worrall as my teacher at KTHS and producer of operettas I took part in. He was an enthusiastic man with a great zest for life. Love to all the Family at this sad time from Brett and Jodi Condely and Family.
Dear Judy and family. My heart breaks for you all on the passing of John. Following your grief there will be beautiful memories you will hold forever. Now with the angels of heaven. Love to you all from Lorraine
Dear Judy.
Both John and yourself impacted positively on so many of your students lives with such positive results on so many, in classrooms, operettas, friendships both in and outside of K.T.H.S. What achievements.
May the love you shared Judy, give you strength as you travel through the future whatever directions and challenges. Deepest Sympathy and thank you, Colin and Mary.
To Judy and family. The Kerang Quilters extend their deepest sympathy and love to you all. After the sadness there will be the beautiful memories for you all to hold and cherish. God bless you all. John now rests in peace after much suffering.
To Mrs Worrall, Katrina, Martin and Samantha.
I offer my condolences to you for the passing of John.
He was a great teacher and have fond memories of him, particularly when he had Vampire’s Spit at your birthday party Martin 😂
He always had a good word for my family and I reciprocate.
Vale.