The funeral of a Newtownahmilton man who died in a tragic farming accident in Tassagh will take place on Saturday.
Samuel (Sam) Maclean died as a result of an accident on the Dundrum Road on Tuesday evening.
Sam, from Ballymoyer Road, is the dearly loved and cherished husband of Betty and much loved father of Ruth.
He is the dear father-in-law of Mark, devoted grandfather of Martha and beloved brother of Edwin.
Many who had the pleasure of knowing or encountering Sam over the years – and there were many given his time as a bread man with Ormo, and his appearance at markets – have described him as a gentleman and a lifelong friend.
One person said Sam “was known throughout the country”; a man who will be greatly missed.
“A wonderful gentleman on the flower markets for Davison Armagh,” another posed. “He had a great way with people; always very kind and friendly and helpful. Liked a wee chat about his Ormo bread man days and farming.”
Newry & Armagh DUP Assemblyman William Irwin MLA said: “This is awful news and my sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with the Maclean family at this very sad time.
“There are risks in all types of industries and of course one fatality is one too many when we consider the huge loss Sam will be to the wider Maclean family. Farming has seen too many fatalities over the years and the risks are very real.
“I would re-emphasise amongst our farming community the importance of assessing risks and taking every reasonable step to ensure that activities are carried out safely on our farms across the Province for everyone’s sake.
“I trust that the Maclean family will know the comfort of the Lord and the support of the community and I will continue to remember them as they come to terms with this loss.”
The family home is strictly private. Family and friends are welcome to share their condolences at Jackson Stoops & Sons Funeral Home, 39 Portadown Road, Armagh, BT61 9HE on Thursday from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
Funeral from his home on Saturday at 1.30pm to Second Newtownhamilton Presbyterian Church for service at 2pm, followed by a private family committal in the adjoining churchyard.
Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, for Second Newtownhamilton Presbyterian Church Repair Fund c/o Jackson Stoops & Sons, Funeral Directors, 44 Moy Road, Armagh BT61 8DL or online at jstoops.co.uk
