The unexpected death of Mr. George Charles Booth, always known as Geordie, late of Main Street, Ballinamallard, was met with sadness in the community.

The much-loved husband, father and grandfather, who was 84, died on December 24, 2014.

A Ballinamallard man, Geordie was born on August 29, 1930, a son of John and Sarah Booth and he was educated locally in Magheracross Elementry Primary School, Ballinamallard.

He left school at 15 and started working in the local Co-Op, Baragh Road, Ballinamallard. He trained as an electrician and Geordie and his brother Dougie started an electrician business together. Unfortunately when Dougie passed away Geordie left the electricity trade and went to work in Ancalon which was a nylon factory in Antrim which made nylon strands for knitting. He left Ancalon and started in the Police Reserve in Lisnaskea and from there he joined the UDR and was based in Grosvenor Barracks, Coleshill, Enniskillen and later St Angelo, Trory, Enniskillen. He retired from the UDR at the age of 55.

He had a good 34 years’ of retirement. In retirement, he was very keen on gardening and flowers; he took pride in his garden and his hanging baskets. His interests included playing darts and he enjoyed going to dances.

He married the former Carol Daley, from Kilskeery, and their only child is Trudy, who is married to Aidan Johnston. His three grandchildren, Caitlin, Jessica and Jack were of tremendous importance to Geordie, who had been dedicated to his wife and family.

A man who took great pride in his appearance, his family said he was “full of life, always on the go” and he “never sat down.” His funeral service, which followed his widely attended wake, took place on December 29, 2014 at Magheracross Parish Church. It was conducted by Canon Brian Harper and in attendance was Precentor Noel Regan, a family friend.

The hymns were Amazing Grace, Abide With Me; and The Old Rugged Cross. Of particular significance was The Old Rugged Cross, which was Geordie’s favourite hymn. Burial took place at Craghan Cemetery.

Geordie is survived by his wife Carol; daughter Trudy and son in law, Aidan; and his three grandchildren, Caitlin, Jessica and Jack.

He leaves his two brothers Harold and Ronnie. He was predeceased by his sisters Kathleen and Phyllis and by his brothers, Dougie, Jack and Jimmy (died one year, one month old).

Donations in lieu of flowers were to the Chest, Heart and Stroke Association and raised a substantial sum for the chosen beneficiary. The funeral arrangements were by Funeral Directors, S.R. Elliott and Sons, Darling Street, Enniskillen, who have been acknowledged by the family for their kindness and support, and the family are thankful for the support from all at this difficult and sad time.