Celine Tang RIP

 A well-respected former House Captain of Challoner, Celine Pek Shang Tang (OE 1990-92), sadly has recently died at a relatively young age.

Her brother Vernon Tang (OE 1988-90) has written the following tribute:

I had already graduated from St Edmund's College when my sister, Celine, began her journey there. However, in the years that followed, I had the privilege of reuniting with our former Challoner housemaster, Mr Duncan Gallie. It filled me with immense pride to hear from Mr Gallie about Celine's remarkable accomplishments during her time at the College.

Celine's academic achievements were truly impressive, as she excelled in various areas, particularly in the realm of Music. Her dedication and talent were evident, and she also exhibited strong leadership and mentoring skills, guiding and inspiring the younger boarders in Challoner.

Among her many accolades, Celine was awarded the prestigious Higley Prize for Creative Arts for two consecutive years, in 1991 and 1992. Additionally, she received the Canon Parsons Prize for Science in 1992, a testament to her well-rounded abilities.

Celine's commitment to making a positive impact extended beyond the classroom. She volunteered for an ACROSS pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, where she cared for the terminally ill and disabled, showcasing her compassionate and selfless nature.

As she completed her journey at St Edmund's College, Celine was recognised for her outstanding contributions. She was awarded Music Colours, a testament to her musical prowess. Furthermore, she earned both the Challoner House Quarter and Half Colours for her significant contributions to the boarding house.

In every aspect of her life at St Edmund's, Celine embodied the spirit of the College and upheld its values. Her dedication to academics, leadership, compassion, and service to others truly reflected the legacy of St Edmund himself. Celine's time at the college was marked by excellence and a commitment to making a difference, and I could not be prouder of her for carrying the spirit of St Edmund throughout her life.

Celine went on to study Actuarial Science at Kent University and in 1995 returned to her native Malaysia to work for an insurance company. Three years later she moved jobs to Singapore but, after a tiring two years, in March 2001 she moved back to the UK to finish her qualification as an actuary, subsequently working in a number of companies.

She married Frazer Willis in 2008 and lived in Worcester Park in south west London.

Celine Pek Shang Tang was born on 28 September 1972 and was in Challoner between September 1990 and July 1992. She passed away at home following a prolonged illness on 4 October 2023 surrounded by her loved ones at the age of 51.

May she rest in peace.