Family, friends and a wider sporting community in Lurgan are tonight mourning the loss of one of the town’s most popular figures.
Benedict Lavery passed away peacefully at his Oakfield Terrace home earlier today (Wednesday).
He was the dearly beloved husband of the late Kathleen, and much loved father of Catherine, Bernadette, Patricia, Martin, Paula and the late Mary R.I.P, beloved father-in-law of Gregory, Andy, Malky, Ursula and Dessie and a loving granda and great granda.
St Peter’s GAA have, as a mark of respect, suspended all football club activity until after the funeral, which leaves from Benedict’s home on Saturday morning at 8.45am for 9.30am Requiem Mass in St Peter’s Church.
The club said: “The committees and members of St Peter’s CLG, An Lorgain, are deeply saddened to report the death of our much loved president, Benedict Lavery (RIP).
“Our deepest and heartfelt condolences are extended to his late wife Kathleen (RIP), his children – Catherine, Bernadette, Patricia, Martin, Paula and the late Mary (RIP); his siblings Ann and Gerald, and the late Josie, Marie and Eileen (RIP) and the wider family circle.”
Well-known GAA correspondent Eugene Creaney described Benedict as “one of the town’s best loved individuals”.
Said Eugene: “Recognised for many years of work in the community, Benedict held almost every office at the Lurgan club. On a personal note he was my first manager and brought much needed help on a personal level thought difficult times, for which I will be eternally grateful. Deepest sympathies to the Lavery family at this sad time, may he rest in peace.”
One person described him as “a giant of a man in the Lurgan Community who worked so tirelessly for St Vincent De Paul over many years”.
Another commented: “Gentleman is understatement. They don’t make them like him anymore.”
One wrote: “The very nicest of men, always smiling and always thinking of others. A lifetime of service given to our community.”
Benedict’s Requiem Mass can be viewed of St Peter’s Church webcam.
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