WATCH: “Much loved and respected” dance teacher passes away at 101

Wednesday 06 July 2022

Tributes have been pouring in for a "much loved and respected" dance teacher who nurtured young talents for more than 70 years with the Jersey Academy of Dancing, after she passed away aged 101.

The Academy announced on Tuesday: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Jersey Academy of Dancing's much loved and respected former Principal, the wonderful Miss Valerie Guy, passed away peacefully at home last night."

They added: "She was an incredible 101 years old and shared her love of dancing with thousands of children and her zest for life with her much-loved adult keep-fitters.

"A truly inspirational lady, she will be greatly missed by us all."

The celebrated teacher had been visiting Jersey and was due to go back to the UK in 1939, but war broke out on 3 September – the day she was due to go back home – leading her to decide to stay put for what she initially thought would be just a few months.

As the Occupation took hold, buses became less frequent and a Grouville-based friend whose children were unable to get to town asked if Miss Guy would teach them.

She initially started at the then-Pembroke Hotel's hall, where she was already practising her dancing every day, but soon found that demand became so great that she had to move.

In town, the school moved to Halkett Place, and then opposite Le Gallais, but it found its 'forever' home when a property came up for sale in David Place, which remains the Jersey Academy of Dancing base today.

Miss Guy also took over the running of children's parties at the West Park Pavillion, the heart of Jersey social life for many decades. When the war was finally over, she was responsible for organising a big party to celebrate the end of Occupation.

Video: Miss Guy talking about her memories of the West Park Pavilion and founding the Jersey Academy of Dance.

Miss Guy also admitted during an interview with Jersey Heritage that 'The Pav' was also her preferred place for courting. Long before the advent of rock 'n' roll, she fondly recalled how evenings there would conclude with a Waltz.

Over the following decades, thousands of budding young dancers passed through Miss Guy's hands, some of which going on to become students of prestigious schools such as Laine.

In 2015, she retired – but still kept a hand in teaching, even overseeing a 'keep fit' class aged 97.

Laura Reynolds, who joined as a new recruit teacher for Miss Guy aged 19 and took over as Principal more than 20 years later, told Express's sister publication Connect in 2019: "She is still very much involved.

"I won't go a week without seeing her. She comes to all our rehearsals and every week I go up there and do the books."

In 2020, Ms Guy played a role in the pandemic, encouraging islanders' to get their jab.

"I do think it's a very wise thing for everybody to get vaccinated because it helps not only the elderly but the young ones as well," she said in a video.

Now that Islanders aged 80+ can book their COVID-19 vaccine appointments, Valerie Guy, Dr Muscat, the Bailiff of Jersey, @ChiefNurseJsy and the Dean of Jersey tell us why getting the COVID-19 vaccine is so important. Book now: https://t.co/LlQRZaTsxd. pic.twitter.com/eoz4uTZpwS

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) January 16, 2021

Among those to pay tribute was Jersey-born star of Eastenders and the West End stage Jonny Labey, who said the teacher was "forever in our hearts."

His father, newly-elected Grouville Constable and 'singing postman' Mark Labey, added: "The passing of Miss Guy is like losing part of the heart and soul of Jersey. We will all miss her but enjoy her legacy which is part off us all. Rest in Peace."

Anne-Marie Willing wrote on Facebook: "Sad news indeed but many happy memories of Valerie. Her exceptional personality shone through to all her pupils. She was a friend, and rival, of my mother (Irene Buhts) in their young days in Gorey Village. Condolences especially to Laura, and everyone who knew this inspirational lady."

"I have such fond memories of Miss Guy, who always welcomed me as a child when performing in Jersey and then later as a teacher with my own students. Always so encouraging and a true inspiration to all," Karen Thompson added.

Sue Chipperfield said: "How sad but what a wonderful long life she lead, inspiring literally thousands of others through her dancing. She was the last remaining of three teachers who inspired my love of the Arts, the others being Daryl Rennolds and Amy Luce."

Zara Raymond commented: "An iconic and inspirational lady who will be missed by so many. She commanded respect like no other, and instilled a love of dance and discipline in so many who will no doubt feel the same way as me today in hearing this sad news.

"Keep on dancing up there Miss Guy.”