Dromore GAA great left ‘indelible’ mark on all who knew him

THE Dromore community has paid tribute to the life of one of the most renowned gaelic footballers ever to grace the Tyrone town.

Tommy Hunter, who was aged 86, died on Wednesday. A farmer all his life and a funeral director in the town for years, Mr Hunter was well-known in the local area for his friendly character, footballing prowess and his dedicated and encouraging involvement in a range of community and other activities.

But it will be as a footballer that he will perhaps be best remembered, and at the time of his death he was Vice-President of the Dromore St Dympna’s GAA club.

As a player, a highlight was winning the McElduff Cup with the club, and representing them with distinction despite losing both the 1977 Tyrone County Final – the club’s first since 1946.

In a tribute to Tommy on social media a Dromore GFC spokesperson said, “Tommy was one of Dromore’s most renowned and respected footballers between the 50s and 70s, noted throughout Tyrone GAA circles for his bravery, dedication, and athleticism, a much-feared figure amongst the opposition and an endeared one amongst the people of Dromore.

“His leadership qualities transcended the confines of the football pitch. In the early sixties when the club was struggling to field a senior team, the subsequent revival of the club can largely be credited to the determination of Tommy and his ability to motivate those around him to continue to represent Dromore through gaelic games.

“Soon after this resurgence, Tommy and his teammates trailblazed through the Tournament scene in Ulster, eventually progressing to win the Intermediate league and championship and the McElduff Cup in 1974,” the spokesperson continued.

“Tommy played his final game for Dromore in the 1977 Senior county final and although the fairytale ending eluded Tommy’s playing career, the transformation of our club’s standing from its low ebb at the start of Tommy’s playing career can largely be attributed to Tommy perseverance and his ability to inspire all within the club.”

In subsequent years, Mr Hunter managed a number of successful Reserve teams in the seventies and eighties and continued to take a keen interest in the fortunes of the club.

The club went on to say that Mr Hunter was a ‘loved figure’ who had left an ‘indelible mark’ on anyone he came into contact with.

“He will be remembered by all with heartfelt fondness,” the club added.

In addition to his gaelic footballing exploits, in later years he took a keen interest in the fortunes of Tummery Athletic FC.

The soccer club paid their respects to Tommy online.

“Our sincere condolences go to the Hunter family on the recent passing of Tommy Hunter. Tommy was a supporter of the club in so many ways, sold countless tickets each year, instilled values in our members and past players,” said Tummery Athletic FC spokesperson.

“Tommy’s sons Paul and Tom were former players and club stalwarts. Damian is also a former player, club committee and youth coach. Grandkids Ross & James Hunter are players also with our senior and youth teams.

“He farmed the land at Crawfords Lane and it was welcome news for him to see it turn into extended community use – a sporting hub for the community.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Myra, Paul (Tina), Tom (Michelle), Mark (Tracey), Damian (Shauna) and the extended family at this sad time.”

Tommy will leave his late residence at 10.20am tomorrow for 11am requiem Mass in St Davog’s Church Dromore, followed by his burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.