Thomas Wilson "Tom" Barnes (15 Mar 1942 - 15 Jul 2022)

A privilege to have known Tom as a friend, & Fire Service colleague who became my role model. A quiet man, with great integrity. The tributes to him in the Tyne & Wear Fire & Rescue circles confirm the very high regard we all have of him. R.I.P Tom Barnes.

To Linda Mark and family thinking of all of you at this difficult time love frm Lisa Paul Sophie Katie waterer xx

We always enjoyed listening to Uncle Tom talking on his favourite subjects, be it Seaham Harbour, Beamish or Lego. It was a pleasure to be his tour guide in Monmouth when we last saw him. Remembered with love, Paula & Philip xx

Uncle Tom was someone we'll never forget. He was a kind genuine man who always had time for people. We will deeply miss him and remember him always. Love David & Jo xx

One of the first faces I saw when arriving in the north east was yours. You had the most amazing habit of making everyone feel welcome with just a smile.

I’ll miss the countless hours we spent talking about football, and you teaching me the north east lingo when I couldn’t understand what you were saying! I’ll remember your many stories fondly, and will try to tell them with the same enthusiasm to future generations.

Even in challenging situations, you always remained so positive, constantly putting others above yourself. Your simple outlook on life was so refreshing, keeping the family first and reminding us to appreciate what is important; each other.

See you later Tom, I’m really going to miss you.
It’s been an honour to call you grandad x

I only met you a handful of times, but on each visit to see Elliot and Brianna you always took the time to ask how I was. I will remember walking on the beach with you collecting pebbles for my garden. Each one was carefully selected and we chatted about their unusual colours, sizes or shapes until my pockets were full! Love from Claire xx

To a wonderful, kind, caring and considerate Uncle and Great Uncle, I have so many happy and fond memories of you. You will be truly missed by us all. Love you Uncle Tom - Adele, Sean, Jacob & Coen xx

37 years is a long time to have known someone and, then again, it only feels like 5 minutes. I don’t know where the time has gone but I do know that you have supported and helped me, Linda and the kids through every single minute. We would not have been able to do as many things without you. It’s been 18 years since Margaret left us and it was devastating for the family. However, you still helped us everyday with looking after the kids and dog-sitting when we were away. You were a constant in our kids’ lives and they are far more knowledgeable adults because of you. We have had many laughs along the way and I am proud to call you dad. All we can do as a close family, is remember those laughs and the good times. I hope all of us can have as much of a positive outlook in life as you did. You were so brave and strong and I would like to think I would be the same. Till we meet again, enjoy seeing mam, love you always, Mark x