Farmers wife passes away peacefully

Annie Beatrice Maude McClune (née Clarke) died on Tuesday, October 29 at the tender age of 78.

Her husband Desmond predeceased her earlier this year just 5 months ago on May 17, 2013.

Betty as she was affectionately known was born in Portadown on January 12, 1935 to her late parents, John and Hannah Clarke.

She was educated in Portadown. She also attended Friends School, in Lisburn and later at Banbridge Technical School.

Devoted

Betty was a keen hockey player who later pursued a career as a typist with Portadown and Banbridge Regional Waterworks Joint Board.

At the age of 22, on June 18, 1957 she married Mr Desmond McClune.

She later became a farmer’s wife and the pair were dearly devoted to each other throughout their married life.

Betty and Desmond began their married life in Dromore and lived on a farm at ‘The Hollow’, in the Ballyvicknakelly, area.

For the following five decades the pair were completely devoted to each other and for over 55 years, both on the farm and in their social life.

Initially, Betty was very frightened of animals when she first lived on the farm.

However, as time progressed, she took charge of the milking and management of their dairy herd and all her fears soon vanished.

Nine years ago, Betty and Desmond, moved from ‘The Hollow’ to a new bungalow, nearby.

Among of the activities she enjoyed, during her married life Betty loved socialising and taking holidays, especially touring around Ireland.

A service of thanksgiving took place on Thursday, October 31 at Dromore Presbyterian Church followed by interment in the adjoining church.

The Reverend A.K. Duddy officiated at the funeral service, and Mrs Baxter presided at the organ.

Afterwards, refreshments were served in the Church Hall.

Betty is survived by her sorrowing brother Maurice, sister-in-law Jennifer, nephew Graham and wife Sharon and nephew Allen.

The funeral arrangements were arranged by funeral directors Brian Poots & Sons, that are based at 106 Skeagh Road, Dromore.