Thomas John (Jackie) Williamson (24 Jan 1964 - 2 May 2026)

I don’t think there are enough words to explain what my dad meant to me… but I’m going to try.
Dad, you were truly one of a kind—an irreplaceable man. Over the years we shared so many memories, but it’s the small ones I cherish the most. The phone calls, the chats, the way you were always there to listen, to make me laugh, or just to be there. You always had the door open.
You were my dad, but you were also my best friend.
I’ve never met anyone as genuine, caring, and loving as you. I speak about you with so much pride, because I knew the real you—and you were an amazing man.
You had such a big heart, and it showed in the little things. It wasn’t just at Christmas—it was every day. Whether it was stopping at the local shop and buying the shop ladies sweets, or thinking about each of us in your own way… you always chose things so carefully. You knew your children so individually, and you made each of us feel seen, understood, and truly loved.
And not only were you an amazing dad—you were an amazing grandad. You took your children and grandchildren on adventures up Cave Hill, turning simple walks into something magical. You made exploring and being in nature the funniest, happiest experiences, and those memories will stay with us forever.
You were there in all the everyday moments too. You walked us to school every morning, always making sure we were safe. You’d say, “the early bird catches the worm,” getting us up and making sure we had our breakfast. And I’ll never forget you letting me drive my first automatic—that trust, that encouragement, it meant so much.
I hope you always knew how proud I was of you. Life wasn’t always easy, and there were hard days—but they never defined you. What mattered was your strength, your kindness, and the way you kept going. I saw you trying, and that meant everything to me.
You taught me so much about life. That there are good days and bad days, that we all make mistakes—but we keep going. And that kindness is never weakness.
Every Christmas, you would ask me what I wanted… but the truth is, all I ever wanted was more time with you. You were always the most special gift in my life, and you still are.
I love you 365 days of the year, Dad. On your best days and your hardest ones—you were always everything to me.
Thank you for being there. For listening. For caring. For loving me the way you did.
I will carry you with me in everything I do, and I promise I will never forget you.
You were, and always will be, my amazing dad… and my best friend.