Tributes paid to gentleman Joe French, former Co Armagh GAA chairman, a gifted singer and one of Lurgan's great characters

Mr French was a lifelong GAA member and a passionate Gael with a deep understanding of the sport and history.

He won minor championships with Clan na Gael CLG and later became chairman of St Peter’s GAC in Lurgan.

A highly regarded native of Lurgan, Joe was a gifted singer and was involved with a number of choirs over the years. He also had a keen interest in Irish traditional music.

Joe died peacefully at Aughnacloy House in Lurgan on September 21 surrounded by his loving family.

He was the beloved husband of the late Marie and the much loved father of Stephen and loving grandad to Olivia and Aisling, beloved son of the late Tommy and Mary French. He is also the dearly beloved brother of Ann, Sinead and the late Rosaleen, Kathleen, Tom, Gerald and Jim.

Joe’s remains will be reposing at his home of North Circular Road, Lurgan, on Wednesday and Thursday from 12.00 noon until 10.00pm where family and friends will be welcome to call and pay their respects.

His funeral will take place on Friday at 9.15am from his home to St Peter’s Church for 10.00am Requiem Mass. Burial afterwards in St Colman’s Cemetery. Joe’s Requiem Mass can be viewed on St Peter’s Church webcam. The family has asked for no flowers please. Donations in lieu if desired to Chest, Heart and Stroke NI and Cancer Research c/o Jack McLearnon & Son Funeral Directors 75 North Street Lurgan BT67 9AH.

Many tributes have been paid to Mr French. One woman said: “Joe was a kind and generous soul who was always giving of his time. He was always keen to help others quietly and without fuss. He was an amazing singer too. A real gentleman who will be sadly missed.”

Another person said: “Joe was a gentleman who always had time for a chat, condolences to the family.”

And another said: “A great great man with a powerful voice.”

One other person added: “He was a character and a gentleman. Condolences to his family.”