Tributes paid to former Portadown teacher and talented musician Barry Lynch from Pomeroy who died weeks after tragic accident

Mr Lynch, who was a teacher in Drumcree High School, was a highly respected teacher and mentor who had ‘an encyclopaedic knowledge of music’.

Although Mr Lynch lived in the Moy for many years, he was originally from the Pomeroy and Cookstown area.

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Heartbroken friends and former pupils shared their shock and sorrow at the tragic death of Mr Lynch who has been described as ‘a lighthouse of a man’.

Armagh Rhymers led the tributes to Mr Lynch: “Heartbroken doesn’t seem to cover how we are feeling today at the sad passing of our esteemed colleague and dear friend Barry Lynch. Barry has been the very fabric of our work in recent years, and it is hard to imagine a world without him in it.

"His encyclopaedic knowledge of music, impeccable style, contagious laugh and of course that glorious moustache, brightened our days. Rhymer Annie June Callaghan referred to him today as a “lighthouse of a man” and we can think of no truer words; a beacon of strength and a shining light in this world.

"The outpouring of love from friends, audiences and colleagues in recent weeks is testament to a man who touched the lives of everyone he met. We join them in sending our heartfelt sympathies to his wife Siobhan, Jayne and Hannah his beloved daughters, wee Cormac the apple of his eye, his siblings and all his family and friends. We are richer for having known him and treasure every moment we had, may he Rest in Peace.”

One Lurgan musician described Mr Lynch as ‘The most vibrant, positive, talented and interesting man I’ve ever known’.

Another musician said: “I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Barry Lynch. Barry held a very special place in my heart, and to me, he was the exact definition of a gentleman. His smile would light up a room; his voice could fill a room with power yet with warmth; and his accompaniment could sweetly blend into a session.”