Family pays a moving tribute to ‘humble, hardworking’ Jim
Late popular community stalwart Jim Gamble remembered as a loving man who also selflessly used his time to help other people
THE family of the late Jim Gamble has paid tribute to the much revered community man who did so much for others.
Jim, who turned 80 last month, was a well-known figure in Enniskillen through both his work as a window cleaner and also for his pivotal role in fundraising for the charity, Friends of the Cancer Centre.
Speaking to The Impartial Reporter, Jim’s son, Bryan, remembered his father as a man who “lived for the charity and was simple and hardworking – he was very humble”.
Bryan recalled how upon Jim receiving his BEM in recognition of his charity work back in 2017 alongside fellow charity stalwart Avril Graham, Jim said: “This is for all the people who helped and supported the charity over the years.”
Recalling his father, Bryan said: “He was a devoted family man and loved his grandchildren, Hannah and Rory, and was very proud of them.”
Born in the townland of Drummee, Enniskillen on September 15, 1942, Jim lived all of his life in Co. Fermanagh.
He married his wife, Doreen Lucy, in March, 1966, and the pair
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He was not a man for sitting in the house and watching television – he lived for work, charity, and the church
welcomed sons Neville and Bryan into their family.
Jim began his career in the Electricity Board. Bryan said: “Dad would have carried poles on his shoulders up mountains. He was an outdoor man his whole career.”
Later on, Jim moved to the Education Board, where he worked as a bus driver before serving as a window cleaner. From there he started his own business.
Bryan added: “He was full-time on the road [as a window cleaner], working practically six days a week until he was diagnosed in December.
“Neville was in the business with him, and they grew it into a large, successful business. He loved it because he loved to chat and loved meeting people. Neville dying three years ago was a big blow to him.”
Speaking of Jim’s other interests,
Bryan said: “He enjoyed Country music – he loved it from the perspective of raising money for charity, in organising concerts with the likes of Big Tom.
“He loved line dancing. He was not a man for sitting in the house and watching television – he lived for work, charity, and the church.”
A member of the Select Vestry and Choir at Mullaghdun, Jim sang right up until his throat became sore with illness.
Another great love of Jim’s was the North Antrim Coast. Bryan recalled how, even in his illness, while being treated in Omagh Hospital when asked by a doctor what they could fix while he was there, Jim said: “My sleep, the pain, and a holiday to the North Antrim Coast.”
Jim died on October 19 at Omagh Hospital following a short battle with cancer.
His funeral took place on Saturday, October 22 at Mullaghdun Parish Church.
He is survived by his wife, Doreen; son Bryan (Amanda), and his grandchildren, Hannah and Rory. Jim was predeceased by his son Neville.
Funeral arrangements were carried out by Keith Elliott, W.T. Morrison Funeral Directors.