Tributes have been paid to the “woman behind the wheel” of Belleek & District Vintage Club Newry after her passing on Tuesday (June 24).
Anne Lavelle, from Whitecross, was a driving force behind the club, which through its vintage tractor meet ups, regularly raises money for various charities, something Anne was heavily engaged in.
Paying tribute to their valued member, a representative for the club said: “All at Belleek Vintage Club is shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of a great member Anne.
“Anne was the woman behind the wheel at our club, she made the sandwiches, sold the tickets, did bucket collections. Anne was Anne – a heart of gold.
“She will be sorely missed, our sincere condolences go out to the Lavelle and Crilly families at this sad time. RIP Anne.”
Beyond her commitments to the club, Anne was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many.
Those who knew her describe Anne as “bubbly” and a “lovely lady who was always smiling”.
She was vivacious, caring and the life and soul of every get-together she attended.
Sharing their condolences for her loss, one person said: “Such a lady, sadly missed by the Armagh game crew; Aidan, Geraldine, Twiggy, Laura, Vincie an co.
“Game day will never be the same again. Let’s do back-to-back for such a beautiful lady, mother, grand mother. And such a friend.”
Another added: “So sad to hear this news about your mummy Aoife, Jamie and Stephen, a really lovely woman. May god be with you all at this devastating time.
“Thinking of you all and your daddy through the tough times ahead.”
A death notice described Anne as the devoted wife of Tommy and cherished Mother of Jamie, Aoife, Stephen and loving grandmother to Tommy, Maisie and Billie, daughter of the late Jimmy and Vera and sister of the late Seamus.
Anne’s funeral will take place on Saturday June 28 at Church of St Malachy Ballymoyer for 11am Requiem Mass, burial afterwards in St Malachy’s Cemetery.
Donations in lieu of flowers, if desired are for Newry Hospice c/o a donation box at the home, any family member or to Martin Kelly Funeral Directors.
