On Sunday, Oct. 19, West Mercer Elementary first-grade teacher Nancy Burrill passed away after a recurring battle with lymphoma.

“Nancy was a wonderful, caring teacher, and her vibrant energy and kind heart will be missed in our community,” said interim West Mercer Elementary Principal Aimee Batliner-Gillette.

Burrill started teaching in the Mercer Island School District in 2002. She started her teaching career in Virginia in 1972 and moved to Federal Way Public Schools in 1974.

“Nancy was a gifted teacher and valued member of our educational community. She was a warm and caring teacher and showed a strong commitment to her students and staff and to her own professional development,” said Superintendent Dr. Gary Plano. “Nancy’s family and her friends and colleagues will be in our thoughts and prayers.”

In a 2004 nomination for the Reporter’s Teacher of the Year, one parent wrote, “[Nancy’s] fondness for quality children’s literature is infectious” and that she “inspires children to perform the best they possibly can on any given day.”

In keeping with Burrill’s wishes, there will not be a public service. However, information about donations to a foundation in Burrill’s name will be available soon.