THE family of a north Belfast pensioner, a well-known former blanket man, who died from coronavirus just hours after he was found unwell in bed, have told of their devastation.
John Thomas, who was originally from Sailortown but lived in the New Lodge area, died on Tuesday evening.
In regular contact with his family, the 73-year-old had last spoken with his nephew, also called John Thomas, on Monday.
However, concerns were raised by relatives when he didn't answer calls or messages on Tuesday.
When they went to check on the pensioner, they found him unwell in his bed.
He was taken to the Mater Hospital where he later died as a result of Covid-19 aspiration pneumonia.
A well-known former republican, Mr Thomas spent a total of 16 years in prison, as a result of a number of sentences. During that time, he spent five as a blanket man.
In recent years, had become passionate about the regeneration of Sailortown.
Speaking to the Irish News, his nephew said his uncle, who had no underlying health conditions. was "as fit as a fiddle".
"It is absolutely awful," he said.
"My father died last year from cancer and he came up every day and he cared for my dad and helped us through it. He was a huge part of our lives."
The Galway man said the family had received many messages of condolence from all around Ireland.
He said it was very difficult for the family to not have been with him when he died or give him the send-off they wanted.
"They are going to take him straight to Carnmoney on Friday," he said.
"There will be a short service with a maximum of 10 people".
Mr Thomas added: "He was a father figure for us. If we ever needed advice, he was the first guy I would ring. He was a huge part of my life. It is really devastating. He meant so much to us and his community".
