Jim bore his illness with fortitude

Jim, as he was affectionately known, had come to reside at 2 Springfields, Newry Road some nine years ago and had enjoyed living in the Banbridge district. Coming from Shanaghan, Katesbridge where he was brought up he, was a son of the late Walter and Maud Johnston.

He took a great interest in the life of the community there. After leaving school he was employed with the Northern Bank in Dungannon and also in Keady and then to Newry and then to Dunmurray and retired from there through ill health. But being a man of many Christian principles he bore his illness with true Christian fortitude. He enjoyed an interest in houses, motorcars and going on holidays. His main interest however was centred around his family and it is there that his passing will be mostly felt. He grieved profoundly over the passing of his sister Ella. He was a member of Katesbridge Presbyterian Church. He is survived by 3 brothers Millar (Rathfriland), Walter (Moneyslane) and Jack (Lacken), his sisters-in-law Edith, Gladys and Betty, brother-in-law Billy, several nephews and nieces. To these and all other relatives sincere sympathy has been extended. The funeral took place from his home on Friday for a service in Katesbridge Presbyterian Church which was filled to capacity. The hymns ‘The Lord’s My Shepherd’ and ‘Shine Jesus Shine’ were sung.

Mrs Pearl Clydesdale presided at the organ. The interment took place in Ballyroney Presbyterian Churchyard. Family flowers were placed on the grave and donations in lieu of flowers are being sent to William Bell and Co. Funeral Directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, BT32 3LR for The Southern Area Hospice.

William Bell and Co. had charge of the funeral arrangements.