Sudden death shocks community

A GREAT sense of disbelief spread throughout the Closkelt and Moneyslane districts, and indeed much further afield, when it was learned of the sudden passing of William John Ward at his home at Drumgooland Road, Ballyroney, Banbridge.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Jan 2010, 14:28 BST
Updated 18th Jan 2010, 14:42 BST

William, only son of Ronnie and Maud, was out for a walk with his dog on the evening of Monday January 4 and had just returned home when he felt suddenly ill and collapsed with a fatal seizure.

William attended Closkelt Primary School and Rathfriland High School and after leaving school joined the army in 1984 and was discharged in 2007.

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During his time in the army he was of exemplary behaviour. He loved music and especially that of military bands. He was also identified with the Orange, Black Apprentice Boys and Masonic circles and was a staunch loyalist.

He followed the fortunes of Glasgow Rangers football team and made many trips to Ibrox football stadium in Glasgow.

He enjoyed home life and loved his dog Paddy, whom he had taken for a walk on that fateful evening.

He was a member of Drumgooland Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by his father Ronnie, his mother Maud, three daughters Rosie, Ruby and Elsie, three sisters Elizabeth, Elaine and Esther, his uncle John and Aunt May.

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To these and all other relatives sincere sympathy has been extended.

The funeral, which was very largely attended, took place from his home on Friday January 8 for a service at Drumgooland Presbyterian Church at which his Minister, the Reverend Davidson gave a challenging address and paid a fitting tribute to William’s life.

The hymns, “We Have a Friend in Jesus”, and “Abide With Me” were sung. Mrs O Barlow presided at the organ. During the course of the sermon a fitting tribute was paid by Major Philip Morrison MBE BEM Royal Irish.

The interment took place in the adjoining Churchyard. At the committal service there was a piper who piped the cortege to the graveside and also played a lament.

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A burglar, also from the Royal Irish, sounded “The Last Post” and “Revelle”.

Mr Thomas Hawthorne recited “Bynons Lines”. Family flowers and poppy wreaths were place on the grave. Donations in lieu of flowers are being sent to William Bell and Co Funeral Directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, BT32 3LR and will go to Ballyward surgery.

William Bell and Co had charge of the funeral arrangements.

Faugh - A Ballagh

Related topics:Banbridge