MR. Thomas James Hugh Mason, who died at his home, 12 Laurelbank Park, Portaferry, on August 21, was an outstanding and highly respected member of the community. He was 66.
A teacher, sportsman, lifeboatman and much more, Tommy made an enormous contribution to Portaferry life.
He was an art teacher at St. Columba’s College where he passed on his love of art to countless children down the years.
He was a loyal member of Portaferry RNLI station and was honoured to receive a 30-year service medal. He was a former secretary of Portaferry Sailing Club where he won trophies for sailing Flying 15s.
He also served as secretary of Portaferry Credit Union and was a founder member of the Portaferry Manchester United Supporters Club. He was also a founder member of Portaferry AA Group and helped many people on the road to recovery.
In earlier years, Tommy was an outstanding hurler. He won an Ulster Colleges medal with St. Joseph’s in 1964 and captained St. Joseph’s to All-Ireland glory. He won two Down Senior Hurling Championships with the St. Patrick’s, Portaferry, club in 1968 and 1969.
He was heavily involved in many aspects of community life in Portaferry and gave generously of his time to raise funds for a number of local and national charities. He was a well known man and was well loved.
St. Patrick’s Church, Ballyphilip, was filled to capacity for requiem mass on August 23, which was celebrated by the Rev. Fr. P. Mulholland.
Tommy is survived by his wife, Finola, sons Gregory, Donal, Andrew and Oliver, and grandchildren Padraig, Lena, Donal, James and Amelia.