Tributes for retired teacher and tour guide Paul Cole after his death

Paul Cole, a 72-year-old retired teacher, musician and tour guide from Whitehead, died peacefully on 13 January after a short illness; colleagues and community groups paid tribute and a service is scheduled for 20 January.

Paul Cole, a retired teacher, musician and tour guide from Whitehead, died peacefully at Antrim Hospital on 13 January following a short illness. He was 72 and is mourned by his wife Cathy, his daughter Sarah, his grandchildren and wider family. Cole worked as an in-house historian at 2 Royal Avenue and led tours and events that became local highlights. Community groups and colleagues described him as welcoming, warm and generous with his time. Known details: - Paul Cole died peacefully at Antrim Hospital on 13 January after a short illness. - He was 72 and is survived by his wife Cathy, daughter Sarah, grandchildren and extended family. - He served as an in-house historian at 2 Royal Avenue and ran popular tours for events such as World Heritage Day and visiting delegations, including a tour during Jubilee celebrations. - He was a former teacher at Monkstown Community School, a musician with the band Shindig, and an active volunteer in Whitehead. - A service will be held from the family home on Tuesday 20 January at 10am, and friends are invited to call into the home on 17 January. Summary: Community organisations and colleagues paid warm tribute to Cole’s long record of teaching, volunteering and local cultural work, saying his presence made the area brighter. The family has announced a service from the home on 20 January at 10am and a time for friends to call on 17 January.