The tribute to Tom that appeared in May

Last Friday (4 May) Tom collapsed as he arrived at school with his brother, Tim. Tom was taken to Wycombe Hospital by ambulance, but sadly lost his life that morning. As with any young person who dies, the sense of loss is extremely acute and there is no exception with Tom. The whole school community has a real sense of loss and sadness.

Tom was the youngest of four brothers, all of whom have attended RGS; Jon is studying at Bristol UWE, Chris is studying at Brighton Medical School and Tim is in Year 13 at RGS.

Tom suffered from a heart condition from birth and he was very careful to keep within the limitations of his capabilities. Despite this, he was a young man who lived life to the full. His infectious and wicked sense of humour permeated to all those who were lucky enough to enjoy his company.

Tom went to a playgroup in Holmer Green and from there on to nursery and primary education at the Church of England School in Hazlemere. He joined the Royal Grammar School in September 2005 and was immensely proud to be following in the footsteps of his three elder brothers. His brothers had a very close relationship with him, sharing his ups and downs as he grew older.

At RGS, Tom was a popular boy with a wide group of friends. He particularly enjoyed playing football with them at break and he was learning to play hockey. Away from physical activity, he was a member of the Junior Choir and was learning to play the drums.

Inspired by his mother’s love of James Taylor’s music, he attended a James Taylor concert in Birmingham. He enjoyed the James Bond film ‘Casino Royale’ and as a consequence learnt to play poker with a great deal of success. Tom was immensely proud to have climbed Helvellyn in the Lake District with Tim and his father. This is a great achievement for any young man, but more so when you have a heart problem.

He also enjoyed the company of his grandparents. Over Easter, he spent time with them and enjoyed exploring the site of the Battle of Hastings and walking along the Seven Sisters cliffs. The evening before he died he played in the garden with his other grandfather’s dog.

In April, his father ran in the London Marathon and Tom was there giving the usual encouragement and support that every father and Marathon runner needs.

In closing, a few words from those who knew Tom:

• ‘He was always full of mischief and fun’
• ‘He was always joyful, kind and sensitive’
• ‘He never wanted to hurt or offend anyone’
• ‘He was always full of love and caring for others’
• ‘He touched many people’s lives’
• ‘He was very bright and quick witted’
• ‘He was always courageous’
• ‘He always wanted to ‘have a go’, but knew his limitations’
• ‘He was a real soldier’

We at the School are still coming to terms with the passing of Tom. It was a privilege to have him at the RGS and to have enjoyed the company of such a bright, intelligent and vivacious young man. He will be greatly missed by boys and staff alike, but we will always remember him.
Roy Page
Headmaster
9 May 2007

see also: Tom's Tree