A female pedestrian, critically injured in a road traffic collision on the Gosford Road in Markethill on Wednesday morning, has passed away in hospital.
Aileen Finch passed away peacefully at the Royal Victoria Hospital on Thursday, December 4.
She is described as the dearly loved daughter of the late Norman and Mary Finch, and a precious sister to Rodney, Hazel and Jeffrey. She was a much-loved sister-in-law and a devoted aunt to her many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are welcome to call at her home at 21 Main Street, Markethill, on Friday and Saturday.
A service of thanksgiving will take place in Markethill Presbyterian Church on Sunday at 2.30pm. Family flowers only are requested, with donations in lieu, if desired, to Markethill Presbyterian Church and Faith Mission Camp Centre.
News of Ms Finch’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the Markethill community, where she was widely known and deeply loved.
Markethill Primary School, where Ms Finch was a familiar and cherished presence, paid a moving tribute, describing her as a “much loved member” of the school community.
“Aileen entered school always with a smile and a cheery hello. Nothing was ever a bother to Aileen, who willingly put her hand to whatever she was asked to do,” the statement read.
“The help and support Aileen offered to the Foundation Stage classes will be greatly missed. All of the boys and girls, as well as the staff, adored Aileen. We thank God for Aileen’s contribution to the life of Markethill Primary School. She will be remembered with love and affection.”
The school extended its sympathy to her brothers and sister, and to her wider family circle, adding that their thoughts and prayers remain with them at this heartbreaking time.
Further tributes have flooded social media from residents who spoke warmly of Ms Finch’s kindness, her daily walks around the town and her ever-present smile and wave.
“She always greeted [us] with the biggest smile and always took the time to chat to him. Thinking of all her family at this very sad time,” one tribute said.
Another described her as “such a lovely lady” who always had a cheery smile and wave, adding that she would be “deeply missed”.
Many spoke of her constant friendliness, her connection with local children and the comfort she brought to those who met her in passing, with one describing her simply as “the kindest lady”.
Ms Finch will be “sadly missed and lovingly remembered by the entire family circle”, her family’s notice stated, quoting Isaiah 43 verse 1: “Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”
Police enquiries into the collision which claimed Ms Finch’s life are continuing.
Sergeant Hillen said: “Police received and responded to a report of a collision involving a lorry and a female pedestrian shortly after 10.20am.
“Colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service also attended the scene.
“The Gosford Road was closed for a period of time but has now re-opened to traffic.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with any information, including CCTV, dash-cam or other footage, to contact us on the 101 number, quoting reference 353 of 03/12/25.”
