The family of former Fermanagh Councillor Eddie Elliott was described as a “quiet man” who was able to put his point across when needed. Eddie passed away peacefully at the age of 96 at the South West Acute Hospital on Saturday, July 6.

There was a large turnout at his funeral on Tuesday at Springfield Methodist Church which showed the high esteem he was held in by many in Fermanagh.

A spokesman on behalf of the family recalled the many organisations Eddie was involved in throughout his life.

“He was a Councillor for 40 odd years and Chairman of Fermanagh County Council and Fermanagh District Council. He worked with AI services, West Ulster Farmers but I suppose his big passion was the education committee.

“He was chair of Boards of Governors at Enniskillen High School and Derrygonnelly Primary School.

“So you get to know a few people.”

Eddie was also involved in the Methodist Church as a lay preacher, was County Grand Master of the Orange Lodge and one of the founding members of the Housing Executive.

“He was a quiet man. He didn’t make a big pile of noise about things but he held his counsel and if he said something he was very forceful as some of them found out who were in the council with him.

“He had a very clear view of things. I don’t think any of the opposition parties would ever had a bad word to say about him.

“We will miss him around here.”

The family spokesman recalled how one former Councillor was heard to say that you “get business done” with Eddie and there was no need to fall out over it.

Tributes also came in from the Ulster Unionist Party and Fermanagh and Omagh District Council (FODC). Fermanagh and South Tyrone Ulster Unionist Chairman James Cooper says that the death of Eddie Elliott is a loss of a great advocate in Fermanagh.

“Eddie Elliott was a highly respected Ulster Unionist member of over forty years, during which time he served as a Councillor, on Enniskillen Rural Council, Fermanagh County Council and Fermanagh District Council. During that time he was Chairman for several years, and importantly guided the Council through very turbulent times in the early period of the troubles.

“Eddie also served on the Constituency Executive and held the post of Vice-President for many years. We have now lost a great Unionist stalwart and supporter of this Association. My sincere condolences go to the entire family circle.”

A statement from the Council said: “It is with deep regret that Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has learnt of the passing of Mr. William Edward (Eddie) Elliott JP, who served as a Councillor on Fermanagh District Council from 1973-1989.

“During his years as a Councillor, Eddie was highly respected throughout the Fermanagh district and beyond and was noted for his zealous representation of his constituents. On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, we extend our sincere sympathies to his family, sons George and Albert, daughter Joan, grandchildren Ruth, Claire, Tristan, Fiona and Ashley and the extended family.”