Former Student and Family Friend Reacts to the Passing of Richfield Teacher Mary Weingates

Richfield Springs Central School District science teacher Mary Weingates is being remembered by her family and friends.

Weingates died in a fire that broke out in her home on Walnut Street in Richfield Springs on Saturday, November 16, 2013.

One of her former students, Jordan McKnight, says Weingates was not only his seventh grade science teacher, but she was also a family friend.

He said the news that her home was on fire spread rapidly, but no one imagined that she would have been killed in the blaze.  He says it was a shock to him and his family, and says Mrs. Weingates was a beloved teacher who will be tremendously missed.

Counselors are on hand at the school for her students.  Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.

Superintendent of School F. Daniel Myers III released the following about Mrs. Weingates' passing:

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