Mr. Thomas (Tommy) Byers passed away peacefully on May 10, 2014, age 97, at his home, Salry, Ballinamallard. Thomas was born on August 12, 1916, in Drummallaght, Cavan; he was the youngest and last surviving of five children to the late James and Elizabeth Byers.

Thomas attended Billis School, Cavan. Leaving at the early age of 15, he went to Belfast to work, staying with relatives, and then returning to Cavan where he continued to work in the building trade. Tommy continued with his knowledge and skill in the building trade throughout his working life. This was most useful on his farm and he enjoyed working and helping out other farmers and neighbours, especially time spent on Hyde’s farm in Clones, Co. Monaghan. Tommy also enjoyed lorry driving and taxi driving for weddings and other special occasions.

On June 1, 1949, Tommy married Ina Frances Byers, who predeceased him on October 15, 2005. They set up their home at Lakeside, Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan where they farmed, and raised their six children. In 1973, the family moved to Fermanagh, settling at Salry, Ballinamallard and continued their farming activities.

Thomas proved to be a very loyal member of Killadeas Orange Lodge (LOL 558) having achieved his 50 years’ membership. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge Kipling Newporten 315 Ballinamallard and of the Royal Black Preceptory (Banks of Erne 1239) where he was a member since 1977 (37 years’ membership). Tommy took huge interest in these organisations and had the pleasure of being the guest of honour at the re-opening of Killadeas Hall in March 2013. He took great pride in being the oldest member at this special re-dedication night and in being able to do the official opening.

Tommy’s funeral service took place on Monday, May 12, 2014, from Ballycassidy Funeral Home to Magheracross Parish Church, Ballinamallard, and interment was at Craghan Cemetery. The funeral was largely attended by friends and family from both the North and South of Ireland, reflecting how well Tommy was known and the high esteem in which he was held. The Rev. Brian Harper conducted the service, assisted by the Rev. Charles Eames.

Tommy is survived by his six children: Winston (Ballymena), Gerald (Shetland Islands), Sadie Parke (Kesh), John (Lisbellaw), Mervyn (Ballinamallard) and Kathleen Seymour (Ballinamallard). He also leaves 25 grandchildren, six great grandchildren and nephew Noel Hyde (Annaghraw, Drummully, Clones).

The funeral Arrangements were by W.T. Morrison/Austen Stinson, Enniskillen.