Former Fusilier was wounded in Germany

William Wilson Dunlop died at Bannview Nursing Home on Wednesday August 20. He was the dearly loved husband of Eileen who predeceased him 13 months ago.

Billy, as he was affectionately known, was a man of many sterling qualities. He worked in the linen business and then as a labourer and foreman with White and Company and was a foreman in the D.O.E until his retirement.

He enlisted in the Royal Irish Fusilier in August 1941 and was posted to the Cameronians Scottish Rifles and saw active service in Walcheren Island, Holland and Germany.

Billy was wounded in Germany and demobilized in April 1946 from No 9 Holding Battalion Dundonald Camp Troon.

His friends and family say he liked “a bit of chat” and was very knowledgeable.

He provided well for his family doing his day’s work and going out to do odd jobs.

Billy is survived by three sons and two daughters and sustained a great loss on the passing of his son William.

The funeral took place from the home of his daughter Helen in Moneyslane on Friday August 22 and service was held in a packed Banbridge Free Presbyterian Church.

The cortege was piped into the Church and to the graveside by Mr. Angus McElroy.

In the Church a tribute was paid by his son and the Rev. William Whiteside, Rev. Austin Allen and the Rev. Fred Greenfield paid a fitting tribute and challenging address.

The hymns ‘When My Life’s Work Is Ended’,‘Abide With Me’ and ‘The Old Rugged Cross’ were sung. Mrs. Helen Bowman presided at the organ.

The Royal British Legion formed a guard of honor and the piper played a lament and the RBL dropped poppies into the grave.

Family flowers were placed on the grave and donations in lieu of flowers are being sent to William Bell and Co. Funeral Directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, BT32 3LR for Residents Comforts Bannview Care Home. William Bell and Co. had charge of the funeral arrangements.