The death has occurred of Noble Douglas Birney (Dougie) of Derryadd, Lisnaskea, on September 10, 2015.

Dougie was born on August 12, 1931, at his parents’ home at Coragh, Lisnaskea. He was one of a family of 10, six boys and four girls. His father was John Thomas Birney and his mother Maud was formerly Glenn. He attended Tiraffy School as a child and on leaving went straight to helping on the family farm. He did contracting work in the country, mowing grass or putting in crops.

He met Lilian Scott in 1959 and went on to marry her on September 6, 1961 and set up their home in Derryadd. They had three children, George, Gillian and Gregory.

Dougie was a very outgoing man and joined Lisnaskea Purple Star LOL 895 in 1951. In the same year he also joined Lisnaskea Silver Band of which he was a member for over 50 years.

One of his many interests was hunting; he was a member of Maguiresbridge Hunt Club and past Chairman.

Dougie was a keen farmer and attended local marts on a regular basis. He grew vegetables on his farm and supplied several local shopkeepers and vegetable markets.

Sadly in June 1994, he lost his dear wife Lily to cancer. This was a huge void in his life. He continued to live at Derryadd until his passing, with just a short time spent in Craigavon Area Hospital.

Dougie’s funeral took place on September 12, 2015, at Lisnaskea Presbyterian Church. The service was conducted by the Rev. Rodney Beacom, and the organist was Isobel Anderson. The hymns were “What A Friend We Have in Jesus,” “The Old Rugged Cross,” and “Abide With Me.” The Silver Band accompanied the closing hymn, “Abide With Me.” Burial was in Maguiresbridge Presbyterian Churchyard.

Dougie is survived by his three children: son George and wife Brenda; daughter Gillian and husband Andy; and son Gregory and wife Elaine. He also leaves his two grandsons, James and Scott.

The funeral arrangements were by T. Moffatt and Son, Funeral Director, Main Street, Lisnaskea. Donations in lieu of flowers will be directed to ICU Craigavon Area Hospital and Lisnaskea Presbyterian Church c/o T. Moffat and Son.