A former Armagh newspaper editor has tragically passed at the age of 53.
Raymond Hughes, from Coalisland, was the editor at the Ulster Gazette between February 2012 and January 2013.
He worked as a senior sub editor for the Daily Mirror for six years and more recently had set up a news site Lough Neagh News.
It is understood he was discovered dead at his home on Wednesday morning – and that he died of natural causes.
In 2016 Raymond selflessly donated one of his kidneys to his older cousin, who lost one of hers to cancer before the second stopped working some years afterwards.
His sudden death has come as a shock to the many people that knew him.
Co Armagh journalist Carmel Robinson said: “Shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of my old friend and colleague Raymond Hughes.
“He was a brilliant journalist and a kind friend. We had some craic over the past 30 years. RIP Raymond Hughes.”
Others paid their own tributes.
One person said: “Sad news has once again touches the town of Coalisland with passing of Raymond Hughes of Ardmore Road, a true gentleman and well known man throughout the country.. rest in peace thoughts are with Raymond‘s family at this sad time.”
Another posted: “I’m so sad to hear this news Raymond was a gentleman our thoughts and condolences to his family.”
“I’m gutted was chatting to him last week rip Raymond Hughes,” read one post.
“I have such wonderful memories of Raymond growing up beside us in Ardmore park. So many happy times. Rest in peace Raymond,” said one man.
One comment read: “Was chatting to him last week.. cant believe your gone!! R.I.P Raymond..another good lad gone.”
