A hugely popular County Armagh pastor has passed away after a six-week battle with illness in hospital.
Pastor Jim Fugard, of Lurgan’s Church of the Nazarene, fell ill with a bad cough just before Christmas.
He spent much of his time in Intensive Care before sadly suffering a stroke a fortnight ago.
Unfortunately, the Church announced his sad passing this morning.
The Church, which had been regularly updating well-wishers of his progress, posted “a final update” this morning.
It simply read. “Pastor Jim passed away peacefully at 6 this morning surrounded by his family. His funeral will be held on Sunday, February 6 at the church at 2pm.”
Tributes have been pouring in for a man held in such high regard by those who knew him.
“What a privilege to have known, loved and been loved by wonderful Pastor Jim,” one person wrote.
Another commented: “Jim was a lovely lovely man he did a lot for the Church and the community; he was a lovely pastor and will be missed by everyone who new J.”
“He was there for many people when needed,” said another, while his “great loss to the church and the whole community” was echoed by so many.
Many sent their condolences to his wife Helen and children Tina and Michelle as well as his beloved grandchildren.
“Jim was one of life’s true gentlemen.”
