A POPULAR Fermanagh businessman, Mr. Jim Armitage, who was very well known in the community, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 16, in the South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen. 

The proprietor of Monaghan Bros, Lisnaskea, his death at the age of 66, after a short illness, has been met with much shock and sadness in the county, where he was held in high regard. 

Late of Drumhaw, Lisnaskea, he worked for over 45 years in Monaghan Bros, where he had continued to work until shortly before his death. Having worked with Joe Monaghan for around 30 years, he bought the garage when Joe retired. 

Jim married his wife Joanie and they had five children: John; Tommy; Sabrina; Martin and Dwayne. 

He enjoyed pursuing a number of interests, having been involved in a lot of charity and community work. He went every year with Clogher Lourdes Pilgrimage to help with the sick. He was also involved in the sponsorship of local clubs through the garage.

Jim’s very widely attended Funeral Mass in Holy Cross Church, Lisnaskea on Sunday past (March 19) was celebrated by Canon Mullin, P.P. 

Survived by his wife Joanie and family, he also leaves four grandchildren, and his brother Brian. He was predeceased by his brother Barry in October last year, having been previously predeceased by his sister Rosaleen. 

The funeral arrangements were by Swift and McCaffrey Funeral Directors, Lisnaskea.