Tributes have been paid to a former Penryn College teacher, postie, “huge lover of music” and radio presenter who has died following an operation.
Chris Tomlinson or ‘Tom’ to those close to him was a teacher for many years at Penryn College where he was head of Killigrew before stepping back in 2020.
After moving to Cornwall more than 20 years ago with his family, Chris fast became a part of the Falmouth and Penryn community – having taught at Penryn College.
His son Sam said Chris was passionate about educating students, but his commitment to ensuring the well-being of students is where he excelled, having been Head of Killigrew for many years.
“Many will know that he had a thirst for life; seeking out new experiences where he could, whether that be travelling or picking up a new hobby,” he said.
Chris was a Birmingham boy- born and bred- and a consistently disappointed Coventry City supporter!
He was also a huge lover of music with an encyclopaedic knowledge of early 80s Indie and punk bands such as The Clash.
If you have ever dipped your toe into the local Falmouth music scene you would likely have seen him foot-tapping with a Cornish ale in hand.
He was also a stalwart for the local community radio station Source FM, having co-hosted the show “Lost In Space” and “Songs from the Back Room” for many years- finally a place to subject listeners to his eclectic choices.
In recent years Chris left the teaching profession on medical grounds but continued to serve the community through food delivery to the elderly and working on the postal rounds for the Royal Mail.
“Chris was an incredibly stoic individual with an easy-going view on life- having suffered his first medical set back 17 years ago,” said Sam.
“After undergoing a major heart operation, Chris brushed himself off and carried on with his life. He cherished every day and saw the majesty in little things that others may deem unimportant.
“He was a compassionate, giving and all-round good bloke. To quote his beloved band Orange Juice: ‘Only my dreams satisfy the real need of my heart’.
“Chris will always be remembered and spoken about warmly and fondly by those who loved him.”
He leaves behind his wife Rachel; his four sons; his sisters Angela and Jo; his friends and his students; and his mischievous dog Derek.
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