Albert Carter, who worked as a lollipop man in the town for more than 20 years, died on December 23 aged 89.
In 2011 he led a campaign to save Darlington Borough Council’s crossing patrols, getting hundreds upon hundreds of signatures in only one week supporting his calls to scrap plans to replace lollipop men and women with volunteers to save money.
In his final years working he was based on West Auckland Road in Cockerton, putting down his lollipop stick in 2020 at the age of 84.
One of eight children, he also had a job on the milk round and delivered papers for a local shop on Yarm Road.
Despite his family’s attempts to keep him indoors, Albert was known to even stand by when schools were closed because he “wanted to be there for any children who might not have known.”
Mr Carter’s great niece Beverley Carter Talman said that after her own grandfather – Albert’s brother – had died in his 50s, Albert became ‘like a grandad’ to her.
“He was just so genuine. Everyone that met him couldn’t help but like him,” she said.
“He was an old school gentleman. He always kept his sense of humour and was a real ‘Morecambe and Wise’ guy with his jokes, even to the end.
“Every day was a humourous day to him. He had a very good attitude to life. He was very independent and he loved helping people.
“He just loved seeing people smile and be happy. He got a buzz from that.”
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(Image: Carter Family) In local Facebook group Darlington residents shared their sadness at the news and memories of Albert.
Katie Farnish wrote: “This is sad news. Sending much love to his family and friends. I spoke to Albert daily when I walked to work on West Auckland Road, he was such a lovely man.”
“He was a lovely lovely man and even to this day, I miss him lollipopping,” said Nichola Jinks.
“I crossed with him, with 5 children, for 20 years. He really was the best ever!”
Amy O’Connor said: “He was the best lollipop man I’ve ever known, I grew up with him. R.I.P beautiful man, you’re forever loved.”
“Albert was a lovely man, he always had time and a kind word for you when crossing over and took his life in his hands on many occasions,” said Cheryl Ellis.
“My son and I crossed with him for all his primary schools days and I always said hello and had a chat after these, he was much missed when he had to give up his role.
“Thinking of all his family and he will be helping others again I’ve no doubt. Fly high Albert and your lollipop stick.”
John Kelly said: “He had a great sense of humour and always had a smile on his face. RIP Albert a real gentleman”