There has been an outpouring of grief following the death of one of Portadown’s most recognisable and well respected business men.
Neville Woods – who passed away peacefully on Wednesday (June 4) – had proudly served his community through his ownership of several popular Supervalu stores across county Armagh for decades.
He was perhaps best known, however, for his 2019 acquisition and development of Fruitfield supermarket on the outskirts of Richhill together with his son, Phillip which they purchased from the Reid family who had previously owned it for a period of 20 years.
Known near and far, Neville always had time for his customers, often stopping to chat and offer a friendly “hello”.
His friendliness and willingness to engage earned him the frequently afforded title of a “gentleman”.
In testimony of this, one person said: “Neville is life’s definition of a true gentleman, had the pleasure of knowing him, thinking of May at this sad time.”
Through his various Supervalu stores, he also often provided sponsorship to local sports teams and community events – always keen to offer a thanks in return to those in the community who supported his businesses.
As an employer, Neville was held in high regard with many now prompted to their fond memories of their time in his employment.
And despite having employed many hundreds of people throughout his career, he often remembered those who had long since moved on.
One former employee wrote: “So very, very sorry to see this. Neville was my first boss when I came to Co. Armagh and I can only say one of a kind, they don’t make them like Neville anymore – a true kind gentleman.”
Another posted: “He was my first ever boss and was very good to me. He was a true gentleman who will be greatly missed by all in Richhill.”
Richhill AFC, a club Neville sponsored for years, posted: “Everyone at Richhill AFC is saddened to hear about the passing of our long-term sponsor, Mr Neville Woods.
Sharing their condolences, one person said: “So very sorry to hear this, Neville was a gentleman.
“My thoughts and prayers are with May, Philip, Karen and the family circle.
“May and Neville gave me my first job in No.7 in Rushmere many years ago after a time of work experience in the kitchen.”
Another said: “Sad news indeed.I only spoke to Neville several weeks back in Fruitfield car park where he expressed his condolences to me in respect of my late mother Bell who worked for Neville back in the day. Thoughts and prayers with all the family circle.”
A death notice described Neville as the dearly loved husband of May and loving father of Philip (Lorraine) and Karen (Neil), adored grandfather of Ben, Ella, Alana, Joseph, Halle and Oliver, much loved brother of Daphne, Ruby (Alan), Olive, Mervyn (Barbara), Isa and Arnold (Angela).
A Service of Thanksgiving for Neville’s life will be held in St. Francis Parish Church, Annaghmore BT62 1NB on Saturday (June 7) at 2.00pm.
