Thomas Archer

Thomas Archer, better known as Tommy or Tom, was born in Belfast on 10 April 1932. His younger days were spent at Toronto Street (beside Ormeau Park), punctuated by many stays in his mother Ruby’s home village of St Johnston, Donegal.

Following the untimely death of his father James in 1942, the Archers moved to Bangor to be with family, settling at Princetown Road. Tommy’s first employment was with Laird’s Boats – he claimed it paid very little but was great fun!

Tommy attended Bangor Grammar School from 1944-48, signing his Indenture as an apprentice electrician for Harland and Wolff two days after his 16th birthday. He was very proud of the fact that he later finished his apprenticeship in the Merchant Navy aboard the last ship he had worked on for Harland’s.

The move from shipyard to ship came about after Tommy met and fell in love with Patricia Fraser. As Junior Engineer he rarely got a trip ashore, but he was able to save up for their marriage and first house in Abbey Mount. A return to dry land came in the form of a job with the Short Bros Missile Division at Castlereagh, where he achieved his 40-year watch as a foreman.

He was affiliated to many local sports clubs, including rugby, swimming, cricket, bowls and golf. His membership of Bangor Grammarians and, latterly, Bangor Rugby Football and Cricket Club, saw him spending many happy days at Upritchard Park. In 1980 he even managed to purchase a house that backed onto the rugby pitch, allowing instant access to his favourite place!

Unfortunately in 2013 Tommy was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and his hardest battle had begun. It was one he faced with courage and at times an almost childlike hint of denial.

Many people were thankful for their connection with Tommy. He was many things to many people – always underpinned by his strong Christian faith. Loyal, dedicated, generous, humorous and loving, he displayed all these qualities while still able to chat the hind leg off a donkey!

Predeceased by wife Pat, Tommy, who passed away on 31 December 2013, is survived by daughter Wendy, son Gareth, four grandchildren and the wider family circle.