Lurgan is mourning the loss of a young father of two who passed away suddenly on New Year’s Day.
The funeral of Michael Downey, aged 39, will take place at St Peter’s Church at 3pm on Saturday.
A dearly beloved husband of Áine and loving daddy of Pippa and Teddy, he was also the much-loved son of Barry and Ann Downey, a loving brother of Lisa, Laura, and Louise, and a beloved son-in-law of Michael and Rosemary Purdy, as well as a brother-in-law to Noeleen, Róisín, and Sean.
Tributes have been pouring in for a man who meant so much to so many in the wider Lurgan community.
Michael was deeply involved in sport within the town.
Lurgan Celtic FC said they were devastated to learn of the passing of their former player and captain.
“Michael signed for the club from Linfield and went on to captain the team for a number of seasons, lifting the Radcliffe Cup alongside Raymey Fitz, even after suffering a cruciate ligament injury a few weeks before the final,” said a club spokesperson.
“Michael was a great footballer, but more importantly, a great person who served our club with dedication over the years, achieving so much with us.
“Our sincere condolences are extended to Michael’s family and friends, as well as the many teammates he played alongside during his career. This heartbreaking news will deeply affect members of the club, the community, and supporters. Rest in peace, Downey.”
Current GAA senior county champions, Clann Éireann, extended their deepest sympathies to the Downey family on the passing of “our esteemed member, former player, and current coach, Michael.”
“Our heartfelt sympathies go to his loving wife Áine, our current Bar Manager and Life Member; his daughter Pippa and son Teddy, who are among our underage players; his loving parents Barry and Ann; sisters Lisa, Laura, and Louise; and his parents-in-law Michael and Rosemary. Our hearts are broken. A Mhuire na nGael guigh air. Go raibh suaimhneas síoraí air.”
AFC Craigavon wrote: “Michael was with the club last year as assistant coach to his good friend Dermy. Micky showed up week in, week out with a smile on his face and had a fantastic relationship with everyone at the club, from players to committee members.
“Everyone at the club would like to extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to Michael’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time. Rest in peace, Downey. You will be missed by so many.”
Sinn Féin councillor Keith Haughian said: “This is devastating news. My thoughts and prayers are with Áine, Pippa, Teddy, the whole Downey and Purdy families, and Michael’s friends. Michael was held in such high esteem in Clann Éireann and in the community. His tragic loss is felt deeply, and he will be missed by so many.”
One man posted: “Lurgan has lost another true gentleman, a loving father to two lovely children, and a devoted husband to Áine. I will miss you, mate. You were a great friend to me and always made me laugh whenever we talked. Another gone too soon. See you again in heaven. Love you, mate. RIP, my good friend.”
Oxford Sunnyside FC also paid tribute, writing: “Michael was a very talented player who represented the club at youth level and played alongside many of our current first-team players during his senior football career.
“This is a very sad time for his family and friends. All our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones. His former teammates and friends are devastated to learn of his passing. May he rest in peace.”
Michael’s Requiem Mass can be viewed on St Peter’s Church webcam on Saturday.
He is very deeply regretted by his loving wife, children, father, mother, sisters, and the entire family circle.
No flowers, please. Donations in lieu, if desired, to PIPS, c/o Jack McLearnon & Son Funeral Directors, 75 North Street, Lurgan, BT67 9AH. Tel: (028) 3832 2232, or via the donation box in the family home.
