Instruments donated

Over 18 years, Deng Xiaolan taught more than 200 children in Malan and nearby villages, with many of them going on to attend college. She donated nearly 500 musical instruments and some 1,000 books to Malan.

Many of her former students who are now studying at college expressed their grief online over her death.

Niu Yanhua, a neighbor and good friend who cleaned up Deng Xiaolan's room after her death, said the teacher never cared about good food and beautiful clothes. Her room was full of plans for stage construction and Malan's tourism development, along with music scores, books and documents.

"Collecting her belongings together was a heartbreaking experience. They are proof of her commitment to the village and her noble personality," Niu said, tears in her eyes.

Sun Zhisheng, Party chief of Malan, said: "After the Winter Olympics, Deng focused on preparing for the next children's music festival. Her death was so unexpected. She left all her care and love to Malan. She was our closest relative ever."

Some years ago, when businesspeople sought to open a mine in mountains near the village, Deng Xiaolan stepped in to stop them, taking a lead in building roads, planting trees and repairing drainage ditches, Sun said. She also encouraged villagers to develop ecotourism by using the natural beauty of the river and mountains.

Liu Niansheng, Deng Xiaolan's nephew, said his aunt was warmhearted and loved children. "When she worked, she served the country, repaying her own benefactors after she retired," he said.

Inspired by her spirit, some of her friends will continue to help the village in the future, Liu added.