A Gilford woman of great strength and determination

THE passing of former Gilford resident, Mrs Clara McGaffin, took place suddenly in Craigavon Area Hospital on Tuesday, September 7.

Mrs McGaffin, who was in her 91st year, was the dearly loved wife of the late Andrew McGaffin of 12 Parkstown Lane, Gilford. She was widowed at an early age when her husband suffered a fatal farming accident 44 years ago. She was left to bring up a young family as well as running a farm, but she carried on with great strength and determination.

Born in Ballykelly, she went to reside at Parkstown Lane after her marriage in 1950. She was interested in sewing threadwork and many of her craftwork items were displayed around her home.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

For the past six months Mrs McGaffin had been a resident of Iveagh Nursing Home where she was tenderly cared for. A member of the Presbyterian Women, she took a great interest in all the affairs of Tullylish Presbyterian Church, but her main interest was centred around her home and familly and it is there her passing will be mostly felt.

She is survived by three sons, John (Parkstown Lane), Berry (Parkstown Lane) and Harold (Ballymacanallen) and one daughter, Mrs Rosemary Colwell (Millisle); daughter-in-law Louise, son-in-law Denis and 14 grandchildren. To these and all other relatives sincere sympathy has been extended.

The funeral took place privately from the home of her son and daughter-in-law, John and Louise, for a service in Tullylish Presbyterian Church. The Rev Samuel Newell officiated at the service and paid a fitting tribute to Mrs McGaffin’s life. The hymns ‘Abide with Me’ and ‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus’ were sung, with Mr William Chambers presiding at the organ.

Interment took place in the adjoining churchyard and family flowers were placed on the grave. Donations in lieu of flowers are being sent to William Bell and Co., funeral directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, for Tullylish Presbyterian Church Building Fund.

William Bell and Co had charge of the funeral arrangements.