Always keen to talk of his Saviour

Drew as he was affectionately known by all his friends who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He was the dearly loved husband of the late Esther Gilchrist 69 Cline Road, Banbridge. Esther passed away in 2002 and Drew missed her so much.

In the early seventies after the tragic death of his friend he turned and gave his life to Christ and since then always endeavoured to speak of his Saviour.

Born in Banbridge to Joseph and Elizabeth Gilchrist, Drew was the last surviving member of a family of 11. He went to Abercorn School and then went to work as a Shoe Operator in Downshoes Factory and was there until his retirement at 65.

If he had lived until July he would have been 79 years of age. He was a member of 1st Banbridge Company Boys Brigade and was a member of the Ulster Special Constabulary and a member of St John’s Ambulance.

He was a member of Banbridge Baptist Church. He is survived by two daughters Diane Kerr and Lisa Allen, two sons Andrew and Terry, sons-in-law Nigel and Richard, daughter-in-law Sarah, eight grandchildren Holly, Rachel, Shannon, Sophie, Aimee, Harvey, Jack and Oliver. The funeral took place from his daughter and son-in-law’s home Lisa and Richard Allen 132 Grove Hill Road, Banbridge on Sunday for a service in Banbridge Baptist Church which was filled to capacity and heard his minister Pastor Ken Wilson pay a fitting tribute to Drew’s life and the faith he had in his Saviour.

The hymns ‘How Deep The Father’s Love For Us’, ‘Great Is Thy Faithfulness’ and ‘Peace Like a River’ were sung. Mr. Malcolm McClean presided at the organ.

A poem was read by two of his grandchildren Holly and Rachel.The interment took place in the New Cemetery. 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, for Baptist Missions.

William Bell and Co had charge of the funeral arrangements.