Walter was a devoted family man

DEVOTED family man Mr. Walter Martin (80) passed away in the early hours of March 16 at the family home, 101 Garvaghy Church Road, Banbridge.

He is survived by wife, Sylvia; sons, William, Clifford, Roy, Norman, Trevor and Winston; daughter, Edith and 11 grandchildren.

Walter was born on May 12, 1929, the sixth of seven children of the late Robert and Annie Martin of Shot Lane, Enagh, Dromara.

He attended Garvaghy Primary School and on leaving he served his time as a builder and plasterer with McKeown Brothers.

Walter married Sylvia Potts in Kilkinamurray Presbyterian Church on August 20, 1952.

In 1953 the first of the couple’s seven children was born.

Walter’s main hobby was playing darts for Enagh Darts Club, of which he was a founder member.

He was also active in Skeogh LOL 861, RAPC 861 and RBP 1072 and was a vice-president of Skeogh Flute Band.

Walter’s funeral service took place on March 19 in Garvaghy Presbyterian Church, with interment afterwards in Garvaghy Parish Church Graveyard.

The Rev. Brian Martin conducted the services at home and in church.

The hymns were ‘Here is a Redeemer’ and ‘Amazing Grace’.

Donations in lieu of flowers, if desired, may be sent to R. J. Poots, Funeral Director, 6 Circular Road, Dromore, BT25 1AL, for Garvaghy Presbyterian Church Sunday School and Ballyward Surgery.