The late Tommy Boyle The death occurred at Altnagelvin Hospital after a lengthy illness of Tommy Boyle. Born and raised in Fountain Hill, Tommy was immensely proud of his roots, classifying himself firstly as a Waterside man and secondly as a Derry man. In his youth, he was well known in sporting circles, commencing his footballing career in Chapel Road Primary School and going on to present Clooney Rovers, Ardmore and many other Waterside based teams. He was a keen supporter of Gaelic games and played for Dolan G.A.C at a time when Gaelic football in the city was not as vibrant as it is presently. He was highly regarded by both his team mates and opponents as a gentleman both on and off the field. Tommy was a veteran of the Pat's Hall Pantomimes and stage productions and greatly enjoyed the camaraderie and criac that went with these events. He was a prominent member of the Nationalist Party in the early sixties and stood for council with the late Jimmy McCloskey in the seventies. His political views were strongly influenced by the late Eddie McAteer and he worked very hard to imbue and sustain the principles for nationalism and fair play of all. Tommy will be best remembered for his contribution to transport in Northern Ireland having worked with the U.T.A. and Ulsterbus for 43 years. For many years he was a regular figure in the Guildhall Square where passengers and customers alike always commented on his courteous, friendly and helpful demeanour and his ability to ensure the smooth operation of transport within all areas of the city. He was particularly prominent at the height of the civil unrest when through his personal effort the bus service to all areas and across all communities were maintained. With the late Fred Buick he was instrumental in the development of the student transport Derry/Belfast service, the forerunner of the present Goldliner service. Tommy was closely involved in the promotion of the city as a tourist venue and entertained many first time visitors at his former home in Great James Street. A dedicated trade unionist, he worked diligently to ensure better terms and working conditions for his colleagues and staff. On his retirement he greatly enjoyed travelling and the company of his grandchildren Tara, Ruairi and Kerri. A keen walker he loved nothing better than his daily walk to Lisdillion Hill in Ardmore where he was well known and respected in the community. It was his wish that he be laid to rest in Ardmore and his funeral mass and burial took place on 30th January, 2006. Tommy is survived by his wife Betty, son Rory and daughters Fionnuala and Naoimh to whom our sincere sympathy is extended. Courtesy of the Derry Journal 24 February 2006 Tweet

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