A much-loved, devoted husband, father and grandfather, Francis Frederick Gibson, also known to many as “Tanch”, passed away peacefully at his home at 12 Kilmacormick Road, Enniskillen, on January 24, 2014, aged 65 years. He was born on September 13, 1948 at 4 Head Street, Enniskillen (Between the Bridges). His parents were William Thomas Gibson and Jane Josephine Gibson (nee Morris). He was the second youngest out of 10 in the family, including May, Imelda, Maurice, Margaret, Ita, Tommy, Bertie, Harry and Desmond.

He went to school in 1953 at Abbey Street School, and he then progressed to the first class in the Convent Primary School. After that, he attended the Presentation Brothers’ Primary School and went on to St. Joseph’s Secondary School. Tanch left education at 15 to enter the world of work.

First he trained as an apprentice joiner with Albert Humphreys and then went on to work for Charlie Pierce. He subsequently had several jobs as a joiner.

Tanch fell in love with Anne Fallis who was born in the Townhall in Enniskillen, and they moved to Tottenham, London, and got married.

They had four children, Ann, Barry, Wayne and Paula. and their nine grandchildren are Ciarah, Faith, Carla, Cora, Shay, Cohan, Gracie, Lee, and Daniel. Tanch - who is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren - also leaves his brother-in-law, Maurice, daughter-in-law Tina, two sons-in-law, Glen and Kevin, his siblings and their families. A well-known Scout leader for 37 years, Tanch’s hobbies included fishing, basketball, canoeing and soccer and he was a keen Celtic supporter.

Tanch’s wife Anne is very thankful to everyone who attended the beautiful funeral on January 26, which was led by the Rev. Fr. David Donnelly and his altar servers. Tanch and Anne’s grandchildren carried up the offerings and led the Prayers of the Faithful along with other children from the parish. Ann and Barry delivered readings and there was also beautiful singing by the choir. In addition, the Eucharistic Ministers are acknowledged and also Paula who composed a wonderful Reflection. The medical staff, family, neighbours and friends are appreciated for their kind help and support throughout this difficult time.

Tanch’s Month’s Mind Mass will be held at 6pm on Saturday, March 15, at St. Michael’s Church, Enniskillen. As a special thankyou to Cancer Connect the families are holding an event in the Westville Hotel, Enniskillen, on Sunday, March 16, at 9pm. Music will be provided by Me and Him and everyone is welcome. The proceeds will go to families who need support - who have loved ones suffering from cancer. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Enda Love and Paul Keenan, of Funeral Directors Enda Love, Enniskillen.