Tommy Early

Very sadly we have to announce that our colleague and friend Tommy Early died on Saturday 27th December 2008.

As many of our residents and associates will know, Tommy had put up an extremely brave battle with cancer for the past couple of years and despite often being in pain and discomfort, Tommy continued to work and provide a service to our tenants with the same cheerful attitude and good humour right up until the last few weeks.  The courage and strength with which he dealt with his illness was admirable and very often it was Tommy himself who helped the rest of us come to terms with the reality of his condition.

Tommy joined the Association in October 2005 as our first Minor Repairs Operative and although this was a new venture for us, Tommy tackled the challenge head on, quickly making the role his own and developing it beyond all our expectations.  He had a tireless dedication to a job he loved and the Minor Repairs Service became so successful under his stewardship that the Association was able to employ a second operative at the end of 2007.

Although Tommy had only worked with the Association for just over three years he was regarded as 'part of the family' both by his colleagues and by many of our residents and contractors.  It is a measure of the esteem in which he was held that many of our tenants and contractors contaced the office to enquire after him and pass on their prayers and best wishes.

Tommy was a well known face in the community and had a great many friends and family members living in the area.  He made a lasting impression on everyone he met, not least of all because of his love of practical jokes.  We always knew when Tommy had been in the office by the laughter and smiles he left behind.  Although we mourn Tommy we are grateful for the fun and laughs we were able to share with him and each of us have our own happy memories.

Perhaps one of Tommy's most endearing qualities was the fact that he was unaware of the affection, respect and esteem in which he was held by so very many people.  However, the huge turnout at his funeral was a fitting testament to a much loved family member, friend and colleague.

Our thoughts and sympathies go to Tommy's family, especially Laura, Donna and David and to everyone who misses Tommy.  We were privileged to have worked with him and honoured to have him call us a friend.  All our lives are that bit emptier without him.