Thomas (Tom) Benson, BA (died 12 February 2020, aged 102)
Full obituary is available online https://www.larnetimes.co.uk/education/tribute-former-larne-grammar-school-vice-principal-and-councillor-2450170
Born in Dungannon in 1916, he was the son of Edith and Robert Benson and the eldest of three siblings, surviving his sister Betty and his brother Bill.
Tom attended Drumglass Primary School before receiving a scholarship to attend Dungannon Royal Academy in 1929. He progressed to Queen's University Belfast, graduating with a degree in Mathematics in 1939. He moved to Larne and began a 42 year teaching career, initially at Larne Grammar School, then Ballymena Academy and Belfast Royal Academy before returning to Larne. He spent the last 35 years of his teaching career in the town, retiring as Head of Mathematics and Vice Principal of Larne Grammar School.
Tom represented the Alliance Party as a councillor on Larne Borough Council, serving between 1973 and 1981, and was actively involved in the community, being a member of Larne Drama Circle, the Larne Drama Festival Committee, the Larne Road Safety Committee and Larne Arts Committee. He was also a founding member of Larne Economic Development Company (LEDCOM), now located at Bank Road and Willowbank in the town.
Tom married Irene and went on to have a daughter. He is survived by daughter Rosemary, son-in-law Alan and grandson Jonathan.
Back to list
Top of Page