Sammy passed away after a short illness

He was the dearly loved husband of Ida and was the much loved dad of Wendy, Russell and Gail.

Sammy was evacuated during the war to Banbridge and after the war returned to Belfast. After a time he came back to Banbridge and met Miss Ida Russell and were married 60 years ago in 1953.

He was a plasterer to trade and then he ran a very successful building business.

A great loss was sustained when one of his grandchildren, Gavin, died at an early age but his main interest was centred around his home and family and it is here that his passing will be mostly felt.

He is survived by his wife Ida; two daughters - Mrs. Wendy Osborne (Strangford) and Mrs Gail McFall (Cookstown); one son - Mr. Russell Andrews (Lisburn); sons-in-law Bill and Greg, daughter-in-law Christine, grandchildren Claire, Christopher, Graeme, Gemma, Jessica, Natalie and great-granddaughter Emily.

The funeral took place privately from his home on Sunday for a service in Holy Trinity Parish Church when the very large congregation heard Captain Geoffrey Walmsley pay a fiting tribute to Sammy. The hymns ‘How Great Thou Art’ and ‘The Day Thou Gavest Lord Is Ended’ were sung. Mr. Roly Anketell presided at the organ.

The Committal took place in the New Cemetery and beautiful family flowers were placed on the grave. Captain Walmsley conducted the services at the home, church and graveside.

Donations in lieu of flowers are being sent to William Bell and Co. Funeral Directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, BT32 3LR for Cancer Research N.I and The British Heart Foundation (cheques made payable to William Bell and Co.)

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