‘Diamond’ gentleman of Dungannon and Cookstown passes away

A GREAT many tributes have been paid over the past week following the death of a well-known Tyrone jeweller, Tom Cahoon.

Mr Cahoon, who, along with his wife, Isa, ran Cookstown’s Cahoon’s Wholesale Jewellers for almost 40 years, passed away peacefully at his Dungannon home last Wednesday following a short illness.

On Saturday, he was laid to rest, and a ’Service of Thanksgiving’ was said in St Anne’s Church, Dungannon.

Among the dozens of moving tributes that have been paid to Mr Cahoon, one of the most touching came from former employee, Alison Nicholl.

Taking to social media shortly after hearing the sad news, Allison said, “Today is one very, very sad day.

“Tom Cahoon passed away.

“I worked with Tom and his wife, Isa, for almost 18 years in Cookstown, and both were strong mentors in my life, and taught me all I know in the jewellery trade, and much more.”

She added, “A true gentleman and an honest jeweller.

“I am forever grateful.”

As well as having a passion for providing customers with top quality tailored jewellery, Mr Cahoon was also a lifelong stalwart of Dungannon Rugby Football Club, captaining several successful teams through the early 1970s.

In a short, but resoundingly strong, testimonial, the club said, “Dungannon Football Club is very saddened to hear of the passing of our long time member, Tom Cahoon.

“Tom captained a number of teams including a successful 3B team in 1972, served on the General Committee and was a loyal supporter of the club.

“He will be missed by all his friends at the club. Sincere condolences from all at Dungannon FC to Tom’s wife, Isa and the wider Cahoon family.”

Others honouring the memory of their dear friend described Mr Cahoon as ‘an amazing human’, ‘a popular gentleman’, ‘a life time clubman who supported the club though thick and thin’, ‘a wonderful character and storyteller’, ‘a brilliant tourist’, and ‘a gentleman who always had time for a chat and a laugh with everyone’.

Instead of flowers, Mr Cahoon’s family asked for donations to be made to Macmillan Cancer Support and Drumglass Parish.