John Summers, principal of the school from 1989 to 1999, died on June 16.

Dubbo College and former colleagues of Mr Summers have paid tribute to him, including former principal of Dubbo High School Jim Carey who is "absolutely shattered'.

"John was a great intellect, a true mate," he said.

Mr Carey has told of the the positive impact made by Mr Summers on education in Dubbo.

"John was an innovative principal who championed the introduction of vertical integration for students," he said.

Mr Carey said Mr Summers was a strong advocate for students to work at their ability level but encouraged them to accelerate their learning.

"I also recall during John's term as principal, his team of staff led Dubbo South to their first victory in the 1991 University Shield, a prestigious statewide rugby league competition," Mr Carey said.

"This is a feather in his cap and a level of achievement that was not repeated until 2011."

Mr Carey evoked Shakespeare when calling his friend "faithful and true to me".

"The good that he did should not be 'interred with his bones but remembered and celebrated'," Mr Carey said.

Robin Higgins, school administration officer at Dubbo College South Campus, worked with Mr Summers during his tenure at Dubbo South High School.

She has recalled the "positive influence he radiated" during his appointment.

"John was a highly- respected man, he held great command, was proud of his school and encouraged all to achieve," Ms Higgins said.

"He will long be remembered by the staff, students and wider school community."

Current Dubbo College South Campus principal Linda MacLeod said Mr Summers was fondly remembered in the school as "a great principal and school leader".

"Our thoughts go out to his family at this time," she said.

Mr Summers immigrated to Australia from England. He began his service with the NSW Department of Education in the early 1960s as an English and history teacher.