One of eight children, Anthony was brought up in Tuam, County Galway. After completing his degree at University College, Dublin, he moved to England. He found his vocation in teaching, principally children with additional needs.

It was in London that he had the great fortune to meet Esther. This is a story that always brings a smile to our faces. Esther was introduced to Anthony by her nursing friend, Deirdre, who had quite the opener: “I’ve met the man you’re going to marry. I’d marry him myself but he’s too short for me.” They hit it off immediately, spending their days wandering the streets of London together. Back then, they were saving pennies, so fancy dinners were off the menu. If they ever splurged, it was for a dessert to share. Those walks, those simple moments together, laid the foundation for many years of love and laughter.

His career took many turns, from being a tailor in London to diving into the computer programming world, and finally finding his true calling as a teacher. He spent three decades helping young minds grow, especially focusing on children with additional needs. This showed him to be confident and calm, as well as humorous and easy-going.

Anthony had wide interests, A Gaelic speaker, he attended Manchester Irish Centre, running a language class each week. In addition, he taught Irish Gaelic online – mainly to people of Irish heritage in the United States. He enjoyed studying Latin and attended a Latin class in Buxton and online. He was also a very keen golfer, and the Cavendish Golf Club is where you would often find him. He was proud to be a Captain at the Golf Club and made many great friends here. He was also a regular in the congregation of St Anne’s Catholic Church, serving as a Eucharistic minister for many years. As a result of his varied interests, Anthony made many friends who love and miss him.

Anthony served as a Samaritan at the Buxton Branch for over ten years alongside Esther, also a highly dedicated member of the Buxton branch. In 2008, he became Director of the branch and led them through a very challenging period. One colleague spoke of his time there saying, ‘along came that calm and urbane Irishman in the shape of Tony King. With a mixture of humour, cajoling and just a touch of charming coercion, he built a strong team around him. By the end of his tenure, finances were secure and the number of volunteers on the rise. He secured a future for the branch and a lasting legacy for himself.’

Always approachable, Tony had the gift of being able to put people immediately at their ease. Exuding warmth and good humour, he embodied compassion and kindness. He had a well-developed sense of fun and a memorably ready laugh. Many people commented on his twinkling eyes and mischievous laugh; we never quite knew what he was going to come out with next, but he was full of fun and he always had a joke at the ready.

So, here’s to you, Anthony. Thank you for everything. Your life was a gift, and your memory is something we will always hold dear. You were loved so much, and you’re going to be missed more than words can say. Rest easy knowing you’ve made the world a better place, and that you’ll always live on in the hearts of those you’ve touched. We were all so lucky to have known you, and God willing we will meet again.