The village of Dervock in County Antrim came together to bid farewell to a beloved community member, Peter Thompson, whose recent passing has left a profound impact on many lives. Known as a true ‘gentleman,’ Peter’s funeral took place surrounded by family, friends, and a community eager to celebrate the life of a man who dedicated himself to helping others.
Peter peacefully passed away at Antrim Area Hospital on Friday (August 1) evening after a short illness. Following the news of his death, people from the local area and beyond expressed their feelings through social media, sharing memories that highlighted Peter’s kindness and his remarkable contributions to the community.
One community member fondly recalled, “Peter Thompson was a real help to me finding my Bushmills/Dervock family. I visited him from NZ, 9 May 2025 and he had so much knowledge and history to share. I’ll miss his sense of humour, his passion for history and his interest in welcoming and sharing with us from all over the world. Peter, you took us into your Dervock world and helped us find the people and places from our past, and make them our own. I was able to visit graves in Derrykeighan Parish Churchyard and Dervock Presbyterian Churchyard and visit Dervock family because Peter helped me find my people and places. Rest in peace Peter.”
Another individual expressed gratitude for Peter’s insights, saying, “I am so sorry about Peter’s passing! When I joined the Dervock Page, I was the Curator of the National McKinley Birthplace Memorial Museum in Niles, Ohio and Peter’s insights into what life was like in Dervock for William McKinley’s ancestors were so informative. I felt that it helped that we connected both the ancestral home with McKinley’s home in the United States, as all I had to do was to ask Peter about something, and he’d fill me in. I really enjoyed this connection, and kept it up even when I was no longer associated with the museum. Peter’s humour and remembrances were truly outstanding. It was a pleasure knowing him and getting to know all of you, too.”
Many people also took the time to share personal stories that illustrated Peter’s warm spirit. One local reminisced, “Devastated. Peter completed a tour guiding course with me some years ago and I learned more from Peter than he ever learned from me… a true gentleman and an absolute ambassador for this local area. Peter had such a wealth of knowledge and talent and he will be so sadly missed. That smiling face, wave and he was always up for a bit of chat.” This individual went on to share a touching anecdote, saying, “I gave him a lift home in the rain some months back. My mummy (very recently deceased) was with me and Peter insisted on us both coming in to his amazing home/museum! My mummy said it was the most enjoyable history lesson she had ever had!”
In light of the outpouring of grief and remembrance, Peter’s brother Barry took to social media to express his gratitude for the community’s support. He wrote, “I’m sitting tonight a very humbled person overwhelmed by all the messages and kind words about Peter, my Mammy & Daddy would be so proud of the wee boy they brought into this world. Thank you to everyone for your support offers of help and kind words.”
Peter was also the founder of a Facebook page called ‘The Dervock Page,’ which grew to encompass followers not just locally, but from around the world. This page became a daily source of history, stories, and tales from Dervock, providing a connection to home for many who had moved away. As noted by those who followed the page, it was a comforting refuge amid the challenges of daily life.
Beyond his encyclopaedic knowledge of local history, Peter was remembered for his humour, quick wit, and infectious smile. He was often seen sitting on a summer seat at the top of the town, ready to engage in conversation with anyone who passed by.
Peter Thompson is survived by his brother Barry and sisters Geraldine, Vicky, and Daisy. Our deepest condolences go out to Peter’s family and friends, who will carry his memory forward in their hearts. The community of Dervock has lost a remarkable individual, but Peter’s legacy of kindness and connection will continue to inspire those who knew him.