A Co Armagh man seriously injured in a workplace accident in Keady last week has died.
Gareth ‘Paddy’ Richardson, a roofer from Portadown, was placed in an induced coma following the electrocution accident on the Annvale Road on the morning of Friday, January 10.
Sadly, Mr Richardson passed away on Wednesday, January 22, as a result of his injuries.
He has been described as the loving and devoted husband of Sarah, and adored daddy of Travis, Ella-Marie, Jorgie and Bradley, as well as the cherished son of Ann and the late George – a treasured brother of Nigel (Julie) and Darren (Dorothy) also a much loved uncle of Jake, Becky and Curtis.
Speaking last night, his employers, David Jameson Roofing Services Ltd, said: “Thank you for your prayers for our colleague Gareth ‘Paddy’ Richardson but it is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news that Gareth has sadly passed away this evening.
“Paddy was a great character, very pleasant, thoughtful and took great pride in his work. He would never pass you when out or at the football. Simply put, a gentleman!
“Our thoughts are with Gareth’s wife Sarah, his children, family and friends.”
Mr Richardson was an avid Portadown FC fan – the Club said they were “devastated” to learn of his passing.
A Club spokesperson said: “Gareth, or ‘Paddy’ as he was affectionately known, was an ardent supporter and followed home and away, having been brought up with the club in his blood by way of his late father Geordie, who was kit man at Shamrock Park for over three decades with the Richardson family and Portadown FC having a strong affinity down through the years with his late Uncles Nat and Bill also holding roles at the club.
“We pass on our heartfelt sympathies to Gareth’s wife, children, mother, brothers and the whole Richardson family circle at this sad time and ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”
Hundreds of tributes have been pouring in online for a man so highly thought-of by his friends.
“Shamrock Park and the town has lost a big character we have all lost a mate but I’m thinking of your wife, kids and your whole family as they have lost a son, brother, husband and dad, wrote one person. “We will talk football again one day mate.”
Another posted: “Devastated to hear of the passing of Gareth ‘Paddy’ Richardson. He was a character and like his dad loved Portadown FC.
“Many memories of him from Shamrock Park bumping into him in the town and always a good laugh and a conversation. Taking from his family far too soon in that tragic accident. I pray for Paddy’s wife, Sarah and the little kids and to his brothers and the whole family circle.
“It will be strange not seeing him at games and again my deepest sympathies to all his family circle and may God comfort and guide you in the loneliness ahead when it all sinks in. Bye Paddy, my friend, until wee all meet again in that big terrace up in the sky.”
“Paddy was a one off,” said another. “Not only a great character, but someone who would never pass you by without saying hello and a chat. His love for his home town, the community he lived in, his friends, and especially his family was admirable. RIP mate.”
Family and friends are welcome at his brother Darren’s home, 9 Drumard Avenue, Portadown.
Funeral arrangements later.
No flowers please, donations for the benefit of N.I. Air Ambulance www.milnefuneralservices.co.uk/donate or cheques made payable to N.I. Air Ambulance c/o Milne Funeral Services, 59 Seagoe Road, Portadown, BT63 5HS.
The family wish to express their sincere thanks to the staff of Willowbank Surgery, Keady, The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, Rapid Response Team and the staff of the Royal Victoria Hospital ICU.
Very deeply regretted and sadly missed by the entire family circle.
