Daughters have paid tribute to their “fun-loving” father who died from pancreatic cancer.

Keith Sampey, 74, lived in Watford and was a headteacher at the former Alban Wood Junior School from 1989 to 2005.

He died on August 3 at the Peace Hospice in Watford with his two daughters by his side.

Becca Furner, Keith’s eldest daughter, told the Watford Observer how he was “very hands on” with his four grandchildren.

Watford Observer: His daughters said they will keep Keith's spirit alive by remembering him fondly and with love. His daughters said they will keep Keith's spirit alive by remembering him fondly and with love. (Image: Becca Furner)

She said: “He looked after them one or two days a week for the last 18 years and was a huge part of their life.”

Becca described her father as “funny, fun-loving, kind, warm, witty” and someone who “enjoyed life”.

“He was loved in his neighbourhood, with local friends and shopkeepers all telling us how much he’ll be missed and how a chat with him always brightened their day,” she said.

His role as a head teacher was described by Becca as “central to his being”.

Watford Observer: Keith with Becca and three of his grandchildren, left to right: Sam, Rosa and Eva. Keith with Becca and three of his grandchildren, left to right: Sam, Rosa and Eva. (Image: Becca Furner)

Naomi Sampey, Keith’s youngest daughter, spoke of her father’s “creative, inspiring and imaginative” side.

She said: “This was evident in his great storytelling, which I loved as a child.”

“He helped to shape our values and encouraged us to use our skills, offering help where needed,” she added.

His daughters described how Keith loved cars, football, playing golf, snooker and spending time with his family.

But it was his passion for art that reunited him and his former students and colleagues.

Watford Observer: Keith with Naomi's daughter, Naiya.Keith with Naomi's daughter, Naiya. (Image: Naomi Sampey)

In his last months Keith showcased his artwork as part of his “bucket list” at exhibitions in Hampstead and his former school in Watford and called on past students to visit him.

Naomi said: “He took great pleasure in seeing where his students are now, and what paths their lives took. He was a dedicated and proud headteacher.”

“He will be sorely missed by many people, and we will endeavour to keep his spirit alive by remembering him fondly and with love,” Naomi added.

Keith’s family has said that anyone who knew him and would like to pay their respects can attend the funeral on Tuesday, August 22, at 12pm in The North Chapel of West Hertfordshire Crematorium, High Elms Lane, Watford.