Messages of sympathy flood in for former Larne Mayor Bobby McKee

Mr McKee, who was first citizen of the port town on five occasions, passed away at Antrim Hospital on Sunday.

The former DUP councillor represented the Larne Lough ward from 1989 until 2015.

Mr Wilson said: “Bobby was a true gentleman and served the DUP faithfully for many years on Larne Borough Council.

“He was involved in local politics during the most turbulent of times and carried the physical scars from the terrorist campaign which was waged against the people of Northern Ireland.

“In the past 24 hours, I have been inundated with messages from people who remember his kindness, his dedication to public life and the colourful way in which he approached politics.”

Mr McKee was recognised for his interest in disability rights and social housing.

Mr Wilson added: “Building on his personal experience, he was a vociferous champion for disability rights within the DUP and wider society.

“My thoughts are with Betty and the family at this difficult time.

“I will personally miss his charm and cheeky one liners. He was a great friend, who along with his brother Jackie, gave me every support when I moved from East Belfast to East Antrim.

“Politics in Northern Ireland has lost one of its characters with the passing of Bobby McKee.”

Extending his sympathy to Bobby McKee’s family, the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “He has been described by many as a gentleman who went out of his way to champion the needs of Larne during his many years as a councillor. I would like to assure his loved ones of my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.”

Councillor Gregg McKeen, DUP group leader on Mid and East Antrim Council, also paid tribute to his former council colleague.

He said: “It was with great sadness that I learned yesterday of the death of my friend and former colleague Bobby McKee MBE.

“Bobby was a true friend of Larne and its people. It was a real privilege for me to have served with Bobby on Larne Borough Council for 14 years.

“He was a great person to have on your side, who fought for what he believed in and never gave up for his cause.

“Bobby’s death will be a massive loss to his wife Betty and the family circle and I wish to extend my sympathy to them at this time.”

Mr McKee was also the father of Simon and Jeremy, father-in-law of Marie and grandfather to Elizabeth, Lauren,Johanna, Lee and Holly. His funeral service will be private in line with government Covid restrictions.

Click here to read: Arlene Foster’s praise for former DUP mayor who died at weekend

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