TRIBUTES have been paid to a well-loved west Cumbrian doorman who had a ‘warm smile and personality’.
James Walker MacDonald, who was better known to many in Whitehaven by his nickname ‘T-Bag’, died peacefully at home with his family by his side on March 7.
He was a much-loved partner for 39 years to Diane Dockwray, with James moving down to Whitehaven from Scotland to be with Diane, who he met whilst working in town on the Robertson’s travelling fairground.
The couple have three sons together, Carl, Liam and James, as well as nine grandchildren: Kielen, Jayden, Kyron, Riley, Logan, Jenson, Lacey, Novah and Maeva.
Diane said: “He was great, I got everything I ever wanted. He was good (with the children), he was always fair with them, they always knew he was there for them when they got into any bother. We didn’t have any worries when he was at home.”
“We had six grandsons first – he was hoping for a football team – and then we had our little granddaughters.”
In his younger days James was a big fan of football, refereeing games around the area, as well as gardening and decorating – despite Diane saying ‘he never ever finished anything DIY’.
Working as a doorman in Whitehaven for around a decade, James was well known to many in the town, and was said to always be fair to customers, working predominantly on ‘The Strand’ for many years before he retired two years ago due to ill health.
The doorman also worked as a member of security staff on matchdays at the Whitehaven Rugby League Club.
In a statement on social media, Whitehaven RLFC said: “All at Whitehaven Rugby League are saddened to hear the passing of James McDonald – affectionately known as T-Bag.
“A former member of our security staff on the JJMcKeown Bar his warm smile and personality welcomed fans of all clubs on match days at The Ortus Rec.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
James’ family say they have been ‘blown away’ by the many messages and condolences sent since his death.
Diane added: “I knew he knew a lot of people, because when we came into town it took us ages to get anywhere, because he would stand and have a crack with everyone.
“But seeing all the messages (since James passed away), it was unbelievable I didn’t realise how popular he was, and how well liked.”
James’ funeral service will be held at the Distington Hall Crematorium on Wednesday, March 25 at 12pm. Donations in T-Bag’s memory will be for the benefit of Cleator Moor Celtic Juniors – U13s and U16s Teams.
Source – Times and Star