TOM Davidson, a “once-in-a-lifetime husband and dad”, passed away on May 28, aged 78.

The Prestonpans man, born on January 27, 1946, grew up in the town and played a massive part in the community, even after his retirement.

Louise Davidson, Tom’s daughter, told the Courier he was dearly loved and would be missed by many.

Tom first worked as an accountant and served his apprenticeship with chartered accountant Scott Oswald in Edinburgh. He afterwards worked for Hart builders (now Cruden Building) and then Youngers Sporting Services, as financial director for both businesses.

He met his future wife, Agnes, from Haddington, at a New Year’s party on January 2, 1973, with the couple tying the knot at Haddington’s St Mary’s Parish Church the following year.

Tom and Agnes on their wedding day (Image: Contributed)

The couple had four children, Andrew, Susan, Louise and Craig, and the family lived in Port Seton.

In April this year, the couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary at Gullane’s The Mallard Hotel.

Tom and Agnes celebrating their golden wedding anniversary with daughter Louise (Image: Contributed)

Outside family life, Tom was a semi-professional footballer for Raith Rovers, Berwick Rangers and Tranent Juniors, playing against Rangers while he was at Raith.

He was not just a player, though, as Tom also helped out in coaching, scouting and many other roles. This led him to become an honorary life member of the Scottish Football Association.

During his time on the pitch, Tom made just over 200 league and cup appearances and scored eight goals, playing mostly in defence.

Tom during his playing days (Image: Tom Davidson)

He also worked for charities and, following retirement and for the past 10 years, has driven children with additional support needs to schools all over East Lothian.

Tom was also a founding member and chair of Seton Burns Club and is a former president of Castlepark Bowling Club, as well as a former chairman of Berwick Rangers.

Tom leaves behind his wife and children, along with grandchildren Laura, Nicole, Lewis and Robbie, and also great-grandson Rory.

He also leaves behind two brothers and a sister: Bob, Dave and Lynda.

The Davidson family would like to thank all friends and family for their generosity, condolences and love in the past few weeks since Tom’s sudden passing.

They are all extremely proud and will miss him unconditionally, saying he was truly loved, “a role model to us all and will be in our hearts forever – he was ‘simply the best’".

Tom’s funeral is tomorrow (Thursday) at 11am at Warriston Crematorium, Edinburgh. Friends and family are welcome at the Queen Charlotte Rooms after the funeral.