Bowler and beekeeper had many friends

The death of Mr William George Cyril Leckey of 13 Station Road, Scarva has taken place at Craigavon Area Hospital, on Monday, September 7.

He was the husband of Olive Leckey and father of Elizabeth, Andrew, Steven and Nicola.

Cyril was 67 years old and throughout a long and difficult illness inspired all who knew him by his positive and uplifting attitude. His death was sadly hastened when he contracted Covid- 19.

He was born and grew up in Dungannon, where his parents Ethel and the late William Leckey owned the grocery shop at Milltown. After attending The Royal School in Dungannon he joined the Northern Bank where he was employed for nearly 30 years. Prior to his retirement he was Agri-Manager in Armagh.

Cyril was beloved and respected by all those who knew him and many of his friends were former colleagues.

A keen fisherman, both around Dungannon as a boy and later in Co Mayo, Cyril also played rugby at Dungannon Rugby Football Club.

His sociable manner, quick wit and sense of humour gained him many friends, particularly in Indoor Bowling circles where he had a number of achievements both at local club level and above.

As well as playing for the Northern Bank team he played bowls for Scarva Presbyterian, Tullylish, Mullabrack and St. Mark’s Portadown, Bowling Clubs. For many years he skipped for the Armagh Zone team.

After achieving an Irish Triples title in 2001 he went on to represent his country in the British Isles Championships.

A passionate beekeeper for over 40 years, he had a wide circle of beekeeping friends old and new with whom he loved to share his enthusiasm and knowledge.

He was a member of Dromore Beekeepers’ Association.

Cyril is survived by his wife Olive, children Elizabeth, Andrew, Steven and Nicola, daughters-in-law Virginia and Natasha, grandchildren Sophia, Daniel and Leo, his mother Ethel, sisters Sandra (Greyabbey), Hazel (Australia) and brother John (Dungannon).

In line with the current restrictions imposed by Covid-19 the funeral took place from his home on Thursday, September 10.

The Rev Rodney Magennis conducted services at home and at the churchyard of St. Matthew’s Parish Church, Scarva where Cyril had worshipped regularly.

He had served as a member of the Select Vestry and was a former Church Treasurer.

Family flowers were placed on the grave and donations are being accepted by William Bell & Co Funeral Directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, BT32 3LR, for The Mandeville Unit at Craigavon Area Hospital and St. Matthew’s Parish Church, Scarva.

William Bell & Co were in charge of the funeral arrangements.

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