Guard of honour as Neillie McStravick is laid to rest

Neillie was born in Grattan Street in Lurgan but lived most of his formative years in Mary Street with his mother and father, the late Hugh and Sarah McStravick, and eight of his siblings.

He spent most of his working life on building sites and industrial sites both at home and in England, where he could turn his hand to almost any trade from plumbing to carpentry

He married his wife Sarah McStravick (nee Quinn) in 1953 and they had three children - Eilish, Dolores and John.

Most of their married life was spent in Drumnamoe Avenue, Lurgan, from 1965 until his death.

Neillie was the longest serving member of the Irish National Foresters (INF) Lurgan Branch and was a long serving manager.

He was a founder member of the Lurgan No1 Celtic Supporters Club.

Both clubs officially recognised his contribution this year with special presentations.

He was also a lifelong member of the St Peter’s GAA Club in the town, he was chairman for many years and his son a former player.

All three clubs formed a guard of honour at his funeral last Sunday (December 6) from his home to the church and on to St Colman’s Cemetery.

Neillie will be sadly missed by his three children, 10 grandchildren and family circle at home and in England, Canada and Australia.

The McStravick family thank the priests of the Parish Father Fitzpatrick and Father McMahan, nurses of Ward 4 South Craigavon Hospital, Jack McAlernon Funeral Director, the INF, St Peter’s GAA, the Celtic Club, singers at the graveside Sinead McKenna and Darren Crossey, and all those who helped or assisted during this sad time.