The family of a 21-year-old man who tragically lost his life in a road collision on the outskirts of Loughbrickland have described him as a “huge part” of the family business, in a word of thanks to all who have supported them.
Josh McKnight – of the Loughbrickland area – sadly died as a result of an accident on Friday morning, October 9.
He was a well known and much loved young man with deep ties in the world of quad biking.
Paying tribute to Josh upon learning of his untimely death, the committee of Quad Racing Ireland said: “Josh has been part of Quad Racing Ireland for many years, and we have had the privilege of watching him grow up alongside his fellow youth riders in the paddock, always remembered with a smile on his face.
“Josh’s loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him throughout the quad racing community and beyond. Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with his family, friends, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking loss.
“Rest in peace, Josh. You will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by the entire QRI Club.”
Heavily involved in the family business, JMK Quads – based in Banbridge and Omagh – Josh was a vital support to his father, Jonny.
Following his funeral on Monday (October 12), his family said via the JMK Quads social media page, “We would like to thank everyone for the kind messages, calls, and support we have received during this incredibly difficult time. Every single message, thought, and kind gesture has meant more to us than words can say.
“As many of you know, we have suffered a heartbreaking loss with the passing of Josh. He wasn’t just Jonathan’s Son, he was a huge part of JMK and our everyday lives.
“He brought so much to the place, and it’s hard to put into words just how much he meant to us all.
“JMK simply won’t be the same without him. There will be a huge hole left behind, and he will be missed more than words could ever express. We will carry his memory with us in everything we do, and he will always be a part of JMK and our family.”
The business had closed temporarily to allow the family to be together in their time of grief.
They have now announced that the business has resumed its normal opening hours and they thank each and every person for their “patience, understanding, and continued support as we try to navigate our way through this difficult time.
“Forever part of our team. Forever in our hearts. Never forgotten.”
The family are also behind the recently refurbished Stars Bar and Restaurant Loughbrickland (formerly known as The Seven Stars).
There, they also thanked the community for their kindness and support decsribing Josh as “an integral part of The Seven Stars and was always proud of what the family has achieved.
“He took time for everyone and was an absolute pleasure at all times.”
The Stars has also resumed business following the short closure.
His former school, Rathfriland High School also shared their sincere condolences, adding: “We were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of our former pupil, Josh McKnight.
“Josh belonged to a family with very strong connections to Rathfriland High School, through his own time with us, through his siblings, and through his sister, who is a much-valued member of our staff.
“News of Josh’s death has therefore been felt particularly deeply within our school community. At a time of such unimaginable sadness, our thoughts and prayers are very much with his family, those closest to him and the wider family circle.
“On behalf of everyone at Rathfriland High School, we extend our deepest sympathies to Josh’s family and wider family circle. We hope they will draw strength and comfort from the love and support surrounding them at this incredibly difficult time.”
Josh was laid to rest following a Funeral service in Second Anaghlone Presbyterian Church.
He was the dearly loved son of Jonathan and May, cherished brother of Megan, Nathan, Amy, Cora & the late Ellen, precious grandson, nephew, cousin and half brother to Alia and Zackary.
Donations are being gratefully received for the benefit of Air Ambulance NI.
