Remembered for his constant good humour and love of football

Gilbert Peters of 35 Seafin Road Rathfriland, passed away peacefully on October 27 at Craigavon Area Hospital.

The 71 year-old was the youngest child of the late John and Minnie Peters and brother to Norman, Jean, Florrie and the late Robbie and Herbie.

Gilbert was born at what was then the family home in Murray’s Hollows, on 21 October 1941. At the age of two he contracted rheumatic fever which was to have long term health implications including the loss of his sight.

Gilbert adapted to his disability and enjoyed playing football and socialising with friends in his early years.

In the 1950s the family moved to ‘Magheral’ which remained Gilbert’s home for most of his life. As a teenager he travelled to England to be taught skills in the use of Braille and trained as a telephone operator.

He put these skills to use when he moved back to Northern Ireland where he lodged and worked first in Belfast and then Lurgan.

However Gilbert was never happier than when he was at home in ‘Magheral’ and he chose to move back there to live. As Gilbert’s health deteriorated over the years he was cared for at home by his sister Jean.

He was always in good spirits and enjoyed the company of the many friends that came to call. He was a great football fan and passionate Spurs supporter and kept up to date with all the latest sports news, via the radio, which he loved to discuss with his many visitors.

He is survived by his brother Norman, sisters Jean and Florrie and sisters-in-law Bertha and Jean.

He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by them, his nephews and nieces and the wider family circle. His funeral took place on Monday October 29 from his home to a service in Ballyroney Presbyterian Church which was conducted by Rev. Phillip McCullough with Mrs. Nan Mulhall presiding at the organ.

The hymns ‘The Lord’s My Shepherd’ and ‘What A Friend We Have In Jesus’ were sung.

Family flowers were placed at the grave and donations in lieu of flowers are being sent to William Bell & Co Funeral Directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, BT32 3LR for Ballyroney Presbyterian Church Building Fund. (Cheques payable to William Bell & Co) William Bell & Co had charge of the funeral arrangements.