AROUND 100 mourners gathered at St Cadoc’s Church in Trevethin today for the funeral of former Torfaen mayor Jack Everson, who died aged 82.

The former Brynwern councillor, who stood down in 2004 after 14 years representing the ward, died suddenly at his home last week.

Members of Torfaen council were present at the service including the leader of the council, Bob Wellington.

Mr Everson’s coffin was carried inside the church at 9.15am followed closely by his widow Mavis and other close family members.

The order of service, led by Rev Harald Thomas, included a touching tribute from close friend and Pontnewynydd councillor, Ron Jones.

He said: “During our time in office together we worked together and supported each other.

“He was a thoughtful, caring and generous man. His love of life was infectious to everyone who was in his company.

“He was a generous husband, father and grandfather.”

His tribute was followed by a eulogy from Rev Thomas who said: “Jack was a good person and enjoyed the good things in life that were given to him.

“He was a Pontypool boy through and through.”

Mr Everson was educated at the Town School, Pontypool, and West Mon School.

After leaving education he served in the Royal Navy for many years before he discovered his true vocation as a stonemason.

Mr Everson worked to restore St Gabriel’s Church Cwmbran, and helped rebuild Pontypool's Folly Tower.

At yesterday’s service Rev Thomas said: “Everyone knew just how proud Jack was to have been a part of the restoration of Folly Tower.”

The funeral concluded with the hymn “How Great Thou Art’ before the cortege made its way to Gwent Crematorium in Cwmbran for the conclusion of the service.

Mr Everson leaves a wife Mavis, children Jacquelyn, Gareth and Michael and grandchildren Bethany and Megan.