Larne community ‘greatly saddened’ by death of former mayor Bobby McKee

Mr McKee, who represented the Larne Lough ward, had the honour of wearing the mayoral chain during five terms of office with the legacy Larne Borough Council.

The veteran DUP councillor, who was first elected to Larne Borough Council in 1989, stepped down at the end of the council term when local authorities in Northern Ireland amalgamated in 2015. He last held the office of mayor from 2011 until 2012.

When he bowed out of local government with DUP colleague Winston Fulton, they had a combined service to Larne Borough Council of 58 years.

Tributes are being paid to Mr McKee on social media.

East Antrim DUP said: “Yesterday with profound sadness, we learned of the death of our friend Bobby McKee MBE. Bobby was a champion for the borough and its people. His was a life well-lived.

“Our deepest sympathies are with his wife Betty and the entire family circle at this difficult time.”

A social media post by Roddensvale School in Larne said: “The governors and staff of Roddensvale School are saddened to hear of the passing of Mr Bobby McKee MBE. Mr McKee was a former member of the Roddensvale School board of governors for many years.

“He was involved in the campaign to provide hydrotherapy provision at the school and saw this completed in 2017.

“His generosity saw him donating the proceeds of the close of his disabled fitness suite to the school. Our sympathies go to his family at this time.”

Tribute was also paid on social media by Factory Community Forum in Larne.

“Factory Community Forum are very saddened to hear about the passing of former Larne Mayor Bobby McKee.

“Bobby was a fantastic servant to the people of Larne. His committed support to the local community during his many years as an elected representative will not be forgotten. We all thank him for his amazing contribution.

“Everyone at Factory Community Forum would like to extend their deepest condolences to the McKee family at this very difficult time.

“A true gentleman who will be sadly missed.”

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Click here to read: Recognition for Larne DUP stalwarts

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