Tributes have been paid to local government stalwart and former Craigavon Mayor Jim McCammick who has passed away this week at the age of 86.
Samuel James McCammick, or Jim as he was known, passed away peacefully on Sunday (December 31) in Willow Grove Care Home after a short illness.
A death notice says the Portadown man was the beloved husband of Iris, dearly loved father of David, Miriam, Luween and Mark.
He was also a much loved Granda of Kathryn, Erin, William, Victoria, Andrew, Alexandra, Hannah and Joshua.
Jim served as the Mayor of the former Craigavon Borough Council from 1975 to 1976 for the Vanguard Unionist Party, later serving as Mayor again from 1989 to 1991 for the UUP.
In a Facebook post on Sunday, Jim’s granddaughter Victoria McDowell described her “Granda Jim Jim” as a “devout Christian and devoted husband to my Granny Iris for 69 years” who lived an “eventful and chocker-blocked full 86 years”.
She continued: “Granda was a successful man, both in his businesses and political life, both of which took him all over the world. And he never returned home from his travels empty handed!
“The youngest Mayor in Craigavon Council and re-elected three times I loved getting to special events with him (mostly because of the fabulous feasts) but because I was so proud he was my Granda!
“He was dedicated to church and civic life and sat on many a board…but Church and Granny always came first.
“Growing up we lived near, and then next door to Granny and Granda, many happy times were spent at Bleary Road dancing around the kitchen. He was so light on his feet, a talented footballer and a wonderful dancer and as a child I was mesmerised watching him and Granny waltz round the kitchen eagerly awaiting my turn.
“Although today I sit with a broken heart, watching my Granny ask “what am I going to do without you Jim?” Because 69 years married wasn’t enough for her… I know he is at home with the Lord. He was ready for today and his Saviour called him home. That brings much comfort at this sad time and I am so thankful for the years I had with him.”
Jim’s funeral will take place tomorrow (Wednesday) at 11:30am in Newmills Presbyterian Church, with committal following in the adjoining churchyard.
Family and friends are welcome to attend Milne’s Funeral Home today (Tuesday) from 4pm to 7pm.
Family flowers only are requested. Donations to be made for the benefit of Alzheimer’s Research and The Salvation Army via www.milnefuneralservices.co.uk/donate or cheques made payable to Milne Funeral Services: donations account c/o 59 Seagoe Road, Portadown, BT63 5HS.
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