Ross Williams: Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School principal suddenly dies on camp, Jackson Taylor pays tribute

A Melbourne principal who tragically died while on a school camp is being remembered as a “kind and caring” family man.

Ross Williams, who was the long-time principal of Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, died while he was out on a walk with students on the first night of a three-day school camp in the coastal suburb of Rye, The Herald Sun reports.

A school staff member rushed to his aid after Mr Williams, aged in his 50s, collapsed after complaining of chest pain.

Despite their efforts to administer CPR, the principal could not be saved and tragically died.

It is understood the children Mr Williams was walking with were taken away from the scene and did not witness his death.

The school camp was consequently cut short in the wake of his heartbreaking death, with students returning home on Tuesday.

Mr Williams’ death has rattled the Bayswater community, with Labor MP, Jackson Taylor, paying tribute in a touching post on Facebook.

“Heartbreaking news that many of you will now know, but tragically earlier this week, while on a school camp, the Principal of Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School in Bayswater, Ross Williams, suddenly passed away,” he wrote.

“It is truly hard to find the words to express how horrible and terribly sad his loss is.

“Ross was beloved by his tight-knit school and parish community.”

Mr Taylor said the principal was “respected” by everyone at the school and left a lasting impression on students and their families.

“He knew the kids’ names and was always filled with energy, passion and, above all, was a genuinely decent human being,” the post continued.

“He had an incredible sense of humour and was so respected and loved by staff and families.

“He was someone who always went out of his way to be kind and caring, and I am just shocked that he is no longer with us.”

The Victorian MP offered his condolences to the Williams family as they come to terms with their heartbreaking loss.

“I cannot even begin to imagine the grief his family, friends and those who loved him are going through, along with the entire school community who absolutely adored him,” Mr Taylor said.

“I went to Our Lady of Lourdes today to pass on my condolences to the school community and to pay my respects to Ross.

“I write this post to thank and acknowledge a great man, a wonderful educator and a devoted family man.

“My thoughts are with his family, his school community and the countless people who loved him.”

In statement, the Williams family said they were “deeply shocked” that their dad and husband was no longer with them.

“He cared deeply for his family, his friends and his community, always putting others first and making everyone feel valued and cared for,” the statement, provided to The Herald Sun, said.

“He was a truly special person who will be remembered with immense love and gratitude. He will forever remain in our hearts and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.”