There has been widespread deep regret at the death of Mrs. Rita Simpson, a former Postmistress of Stralongord Post Office, Trillick, late of 11 Edinburgh Park, Omagh. The wife of the late Mr. John Simpson, she passed away suddenly at her home on November 17, 2014, aged 86 years.

Mrs. Simpson was the eldest of four children born to Mr. and Mrs. John McCaffrey, Creevan, Omagh. She commenced her working life as a grocery store assistant in Omagh, where she met her future husband John, a travelling sales rep.

After a few years of courtship and enjoying regular outings to play badminton, they married and settled in Irvinestown, where they went on to raise their five children.

They later moved to Stralongford Post Office and shop where they became the local hub to the close knit community.

During this time they were much admired and appreciated for their caring and helpful nature as postmaster and postmistress.

Owing to John’s failing health, they moved to Omagh in 1971 for his retirement. Mrs. Simpson took up employment in Maclaine’s Post Office in Campsie and enjoyed a long and happy career there, with her welcoming smile and wise, friendly advice appreciated by all.

She was a faithful member of First Omagh Presbyterian Church and held the office of treasurer in the P.W.A. for a long number of years. She played a full and active role in the community life of the church and rarely missed an event.

Her funeral service took place in First Omagh Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, November 19 and the very large attendance was evidence of the high esteem in which she was held. The Rev. Jane Nelson conducted the service, commenting on how Mrs. Simpson or Granny Rita as she was affectionately known, was a loving, generous natured lady of quiet faith. She had a great love and pride for her family, which extended to 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She could often be heard regaling people with a fast flowing list of each of their names and latest achievements.

The congregational hymns were ‘How Deep the Father’s Love’ and ‘Abide With Me’, and a solo of ‘The Lord’s My Shepherd’ was performed by her grandson Daryl Simpson. Readings were read by grandchildren, Diane Miller, Leanne Copley, Emma-Jayne Fowler, Andrew Johnston and James Irwin.

Mrs. Simpson is survived by her sons Ivan (daughter-in-law Margaret); Gordon (daughter-in-law Dorothy; daughters Joyce (son-in-law Ivan); Audrey (son-in-law John) and Iris (son-in-law Roy). She is also survived by her sisters Mrs. Noelle Breen and Mrs. Winnie Shenton, her brother Bob McCaffrey (sister-in-law Thelma) as well as her extended family.

The funeral arrangements were professionally administered by R.G. Adams and Son, Main Street, Dromore.