The sudden passing of Charles Leslie Haire, late of Corralongford, Fivemiletown, on August 20, 2014, caused much shock and sadness in the community.

Born on August 13, 1938 in Corralongford, Leslie, as he was affectionately known, was the son of the late John and Jane Haire and a brother to Stanley, Audrey, Margaret and Anne.

Educated at The Model School, Enniskillen and The Technical College he furthered his studies at Gurteen Agricultural College, Tipperary.

On completion of his studies he spent a short time with Mr. Jack Cathcart, Castlehume, before returning home to assist his father in running the family farm. Over the years he operated mixed farming, including milking a herd of dairy cows.

Leslie married the former Florence Gott, Monea, in 1966 and they recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. He took great pride in the birth of his twin sons, Richard and Charles.

Leslie’s main interests were his home and family and he rejoiced in all their achievements.

He was a dedicated member of Fivemiletown Methodist Church, a member of Lendrums True Blues LOL and The Royal Black Preceptory. He previously served in the Ulster Special Constabularly and the Ulster Defence Regiment.

Leslie was a person who was honest and generous, a man of principles and convictions who was not afraid to let his views be known. He was a man of faith.

The large attendance at his funeral was a tribute to a man who was held in high esteem as a friend and neighbour. It took place in Colebrooke Parish Church (kindly granted) and was conducted by Mr. Sam Campbell.

The Rev. Ken Irvine, a former minister and good family friend, returned to pay a tribute to Leslie.

The organist was Mrs. Isobel Little and some of Leslie’s favourite hymns were sung.

Leslie is survived by his wife Florence, sons Richard, daughter-in-law Suzie and grandchildren Ewan, Taine and Bryn at Corralongford; Charles, daughter-in-law Johanna and grandchildren Ryan, Zara and Joel in Sydney, Australia; brother Stanley and wife Maureen, sisters Audrey (Mrs. Edwin Bothwell), Margaret (Mrs. Will Cowan) and Anne (Mrs. Cecil Armstrong). He also leaves his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and a large number of nephews and nieces.

Donations in lieu of flowers were to Fivemiletown Methodist Church and Chest, Heart & Stroke Association c/w W. T. Morrison, Darling Street, Enniskillen, who carried out the funeral arrangements.