Deacon poles dedicated to the memory of Joe Henry

Joe Henry was a founder member of the club as well as a Past President and was highly regarded by all in Apprentice Boys circles.

His wife, Joanne, was present at the hall on Saturday prior to the Club leaving for the annual Relief of Derry celebrations, to hear tributes paid to her late husband.

In a short ceremony, Club President, Ian Brownlow, described Joe as a very dedicated person and it was his pleasure to see two deacon poles dedicated to his memory.

Visiting Apprentice Boy, John Finlay, said he had many fond memories of Joe.

“He was a foundation member of the club and a member of the Loyal Orders - Black and Orange. Any time I met him I found him to be very friendly,” Mr. Finlay said.

He added: “Joe was a Rasharkin man born and bred and did so much for this club.”

Mr. Finlay used Bible Scriptures to speak of building a solid foundation and he stressed it was important in life that everyone followed that principal. He also offered prayer to complete the proceedings.

The Vice-President of the Club, Lee Fleming, presented Mrs. Henry, who is originally from Stranocum, with a bouquet of flowers.

Before starting their parade through the village, sympathy was extended to two members on the deaths of relatives. The President said that funerals were taking place that day and he said that as a mark of respect, the Pride of the Maine band, who led the Club, would not be playing music on a part of the route.