'An outstanding public representative': Tributes paid as former Ulster Unionist mayor passes away
A former Ulster Unionist mayor of Armagh City and District Council has been described as a “devoted public servant who always put people first” following her sad passing.
Sylvia McRoberts MBE, who was mayor for the Armagh City and District Council from 2001-02, passed away peacefully on Thursday (July 16).
Mrs McRoberts was the wife of late Unionist politician Brian McRoberts and a death notice reads how she was the “beloved wife of the late Brian, much loved mother of Flora, Morag, Bruce, Philip and Lucy, a dearly loved mother-in-law, cherished grandmother of Brian, Thomas, Conor, Finbar, Isla, Struan, Rachel, Simon, Eva, Dermot and Angus and a dear sister of Richard and the late Amy.”
She received an MBE for services to local government in the New Year’s Honours List in 2012.
Paying tribute, Newry and Armagh Ulster Unionist Association Chairman, Sam Nicholson, said: “I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Armagh City Councillor, colleague and friend, Sylvia McRoberts MBE.
“Sylvia will be remembered as an outstanding public representative who served the people of Armagh with dedication, integrity and unwavering commitment throughout her many years on Armagh City and District Council. She worked tirelessly to make a positive difference in the lives of others and consistently went above and beyond the call of duty in everything she undertook.
“She was a passionate advocate for her community and a devoted public servant who always put people first. Even after her retirement from the council, and throughout her illness, Sylvia retained a keen interest in the issues affecting the people of Armagh and remained committed to the wellbeing of her community.
“On a personal level, I had the privilege of working closely with Sylvia for many years through Armagh Rural Transport, where she served as Chairperson and I was honoured to serve alongside her as a fellow board member. It was a privilege to work with her, not only in that role but also on many other local authority matters. Her wisdom, experience and friendship will be greatly missed.
“Everyone in the Association is deeply saddened by her passing. We have lost not only a respected colleague but also a dear friend. Our heartfelt condolences are extended to her entire family circle, her many friends and her former colleagues at this sad and difficult time.
“Sylvia will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, quiet determination and unwavering sense of public duty. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of faithful service to her community and steadfast devotion to her family. Her life was one of dignity, compassion and selfless commitment to others.
“She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
Meanwhile, Newtownhamilton Primary School, where Mrs McRoberts served as a governor for 27 years, outlined how “she will be remembered with great gratitude and affection by all who had the privilege of working alongside her”.
A spokesperson added: “Her wisdom, integrity and dedication were evident in all aspects of school life, and her contribution to the development and success of the school over many years was immense.”