One of natures gentlemen

A former teacher at Craigavon Primary School in Gilford has passed away.

One of nature’s gentlemen, William Frederick Liggett, died after a short illness in Craigavon Area Hospital on February 3, which also happened to be his 83rd birthday.

William, known as ‘Billy’ to many of his friends, was the beloved husband of Winnie Liggett, and a dearly loved father of their three children, Paul, Edith and Keith. He was also an adored grandfather to his six grandchildren.

He was described by many as a modest and unassuming gentleman with a great sense of humour.

Billy grew up at Aughlish Row, Scarva, with his parents, Gertrude and William Liggett, a skilled joiner, and his younger brother, Jim. He attended Scarva Primary School and went on to attend Banbridge Academy, which he often spoke fondly of. After that, he went on to Stranmillis Teaching College where he received his teaching qualification with commendation.

His teaching career began in 1954 in Craigavon Primary School, Gilford, where he taught for three years. He then became principal in Ballynanny Primary School, Annaclone, for seven years.

He often spoke with great affection for the children of Ballynanny Primary School, and how they met him when he got off the bus each day and carried his bags for him as they walked with him to school.

In 1964, he was appointed as principal in Ballydown Primary School, Banbridge, where he remained for 28 years until his retirement in 1992. He very much enjoyed the time he spent in each school and taught by the motto, ‘be fair to each child. Love each child as if it were your own’.

Mr Liggett, as his staff and pupils affectionately knew him, was held in the highest esteem by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. During those years, his positive influence and teaching had a remarkable effect on the school’s progression and reputation.

Billy Liggett was also a devoted family man and loved spending time with his wife and children. He married Winnie in March 1961, at Killicomaine Baptist Church, and celebrated fifty years of marriage almost four years ago in a special evening held in Poyntzpass Presbyterian Church Hall.

Billy loved nothing better than being at home gardening and keeping chickens, an interest which had been fostered at an early age.

He later enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, and loved helping and encouraging them with their schoolwork.

A Christian gentleman, another important aspect of his life was Poyntzpass Presbyterian Church, where he was Superintendant of the Sunday School and Clerk of Session for 25 years.

He regularly attended Morning Worship. He was also a member and Secretary of the Orange and Black Institutions in Scarva for many years.

A traditional funeral was held at Poyntzpass Presbyterian Church. The interment took place in the adjoining 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 Alzheimer’s 
Society.