The death occurred peacefully at his home on February 21, 2014, of Mr. Stanley John James Hughes, a dedicated farmer and devoted family man, late of 40 Liscreevin Road, Irvinestown, aged 75 years.

A well-known member of the community, who was held in high regard, Stanley was born on June 8, 1938, at Drumbrick, Ederney, a son of the late James and Sarah Hughes, fifth in a family of six. He was educated at Edenaveagh School (which later became Glassmullagh Hall). The family moved to Drumcrin, Irvinestown in 1948, when Stanley was 10, and he went to school in Irvinestown. On leaving school, he farmed at home at Liscreevin. Farming was very much his main passion, an interest he maintained until he passed away. He loved animals and he enjoyed marts and meeting people. Helpful to his neighbours, he was always willing to help others, day or night. Making time for people was important to Stanley and nothing was too much bother for him.

Stanley married the former Violet Gray of Moorfield, Trillick in 1967 and they set up home at Liscreevin and raised a family of four, David, Jennifer, Sandra and Amanda. A committed family man, his 13 grandchildren, ranging in age from 19 years to 19 months, were also of tremendous importance to Stanley.

He had been a member of Drumharvey LOL 159, Necarne RBP 1236 and Kesh Branch U.S.C. Association.

He was always interested in vintage tractors and machinery, and he enjoyed driving at vintage tractor runs in later years. He had been a regular church-goer to Derryvullen North Parish Church, Irvinestown, until bad health set in.

His health declined from 2001 and it curtailed his farming activities, something which would have been difficult for him. In the last 18 months, he suffered from particularly poor health.

His funeral service at Derryvullen North Parish Church was conducted by Canon Glenn West and the hymns were: What a friend we have in Jesus; Father I place into your hands; and Safe in the Arms of Jesus. Burial was in the adjoining churchyard. There was a huge attendance reflecting how well known and widely respected Stanley had been in the community.

Stanley is survived by his wife Violet, his son David and wife Caroline, his daughters Jennifer and husband Trevor, Sandra and husband Stephen and Amanda and husband Ben; and his 13 grandchildren, Jason, Ryan, Scott, Daniel, Rebecca, Hannah, Kirsty, Craig, Anna, Reece, Katie, Jordan and Nathan.

He leaves his brother Albert (Eveline) and his four sisters Violet, Eileen, Winnie and Emily and respective families.

The funeral arrangements were by Funeral Directors, S.R. Elliott and Sons, Darling Street, Enniskillen.