The veteran technology teacher died on Monday last week.

"The Damascus community is deeply saddened by Jeff's death and offers his family sincere sympathy, support and prayers at this difficult time," interim principal Christopher Grant said.

"Jeff has been an incredibly talented teacher at Damascus for the last 27 years.

"He was a generous, skilled and passionate teacher and member of the technology team.

"Across his time at Damascus, he taught wood, metal, electronics and systems engineering."

Flowers from students and staff have flowed into the chapel at the Mt Clear school over the last week.

Mr Grant said Mr Simpson loved witnessing the educational journey of young people.

"His engagement of young people was truly extraordinary," he said.

"Jeff was a passionate Geelong Cats supporter and used this as bridge in building relationships with those around him.

"Jeff was a true character and had an extraordinary capacity to engage all through story and humour.

"He was quick-witted and his sense of fun endeared him to all."

Mr Grant said the College wanted to assist Jeff's family in any way possible.

"Damascus College will conduct a memorial service to remember Jeff towards the end of term two, to express our love for him as well as an extraordinary sense of loss within the community.

"At such a difficult time of grief and sadness, as a Catholic school community, we turn to our faith for solace and strength.

"Our prayers continue to be with Jeff's family and friends, and we ask that the community keeps them in their thoughts and prayers."

Mr Simpson was teaching in the weeks leading up to his death.

The college is now working through classes and assessment for his current students.

"Jeff's Teacher Advisor group - and the students he taught regularly - continue to be supported through this tough and tragic time," Mr Grant said.

"(Before teaching) Jeff served with the Australian Defence Force and had great respect for the ANZAC tradition and Remembrance Day.

"Among the student and staff community, he took great pride in instilling a sense of tradition and respect for those who fought for the freedoms we all enjoy today."

Students and staff were offered counselling at the school early last week.

Farewell to a very funny man and close friend of Brian Clarke (Dec).

Ian Clarke, Delacombe.

Our days of growing up & you jumping the back fence are long gone . We all had such fun times, another link in the chain broken. I am so saddened to hear of your passing Jeff. My heart goes out to your children & Vicki at this sad time. RIP my friend till we all meet again.

Christine Holloway (Jeffers), Ballarat.

Rest In Peace Simmo, you were and still are one of the "greats" at Damascus College whose legacy will live on in everyone you taught. Hope you have reunited in heaven with all of the staff we have lost over the years, including Mr. O'Loughlin and Mr. Purcell. Sleep well. Jasmine Forbes (Class of 2020).

Jasmine Forbes, Ballarat.

Simmo was a wonderful colleague and friend. He was a straight shooter but always included a sense of humour to lighten everybody's load. Simmo had a natural repore with his students and they loved being in his class. He brought out the best in all. Jeff will be sadly missed.

Karen Simpkin, Lake Gardens.

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