The Montgomery County community is grieving the loss of Wootton principal Michael Doran. Doran passed away Wednesday morning, according to MCPS school officials. The cause of death has not been determined.

“You are irreplaceable. RIP to the best principal in the world. Words can’t describe how much you will be missed,” Wootton student Nicole Papadopoulos tweeted Wednesday morning

Papadopoulos is one of the many students who have taken to social media to voice their grieving. Members of the community are sharing memories, as well as words of support and sympathy with the hashtag #woottonstrong.

Doran had worked for MCPS since 1997, serving as the principal for Pyle Middle School and Wootton High School. According to MCPS, his career as an educator spanned more than 40 years, including positions in Massachusetts, New York, Virginia and London.

“His vision and strong commitment, combined with a wonderful sense of empathy and a sharp wit, made him a beloved member of the Wootton community and every community in which he worked throughout his career,” Interim Superintendent Larry Bowers wrote in a news release.

School officials will host a memorial service celebrating Doran’s life on Wootton’s athletic field Aug 21 from 6 pm to 9 pm. Grief counselors will also be available at the school Thursday and Friday from 9 am. to 2 pm.

“As we grieve his death, we also remember the great work he did for students throughout his career and know that his legacy will live on for generations to come,” Bowers wrote.

Featured slider image via Storify, from The Washington Post