THE community of Fivemiletown came to a standstill last week when popular local farmer, George Edward Maguire (72), made his final journey through the village following his passing on June 26.

Residents stood out in country lanes and the streets to pay their respects to his passing funeral cortege.

George was a devoted husband to Dorothy, who led tributes on behalf of the heartbroken family.

She said: “George was a devoted husband and father, and just doted on his children, Heather and Iain, and his grandchildren, Charlotte, Hannah and Ruby, to whom he was affectionately known as ‘Papa Ringo’, a nickname based on his mane of black hair and his love of The Beatles."

George loved his family and spending time with them, Dorothy said: “He enjoyed the craic, and best of all hearing what news everyone had.”

He was proud of Heather and Iain’s many achievements in life.

As a grandpa, he was “never too busy to have fun and give good advice, always hashing, yet so proud of their achievements.”

Commenting on her husband’s wide interests, Dorothy said: “He had a wealth of knowledge about most things and had a great love of nature. If you could write a book about all his sayings, stories and signs of the weather, it would turn into a second edition.”

George was described by his children Heather and Iain as “our world and hero – we couldn’t have asked for a better daddy and role model”.

Speaking on George’s early life, Dorothy said: “He was born at the home farm at Cullentra, Fivemiletown on February 13, 1949, where he lived and worked the farm with his parents, George and Vera, and his sister, Annie.”

George and Dorothy married in 1979, and had “41 wonderful years together”.

George was highly regarded across the community for his farming. Reflecting on that part of his life, Dorothy said: “He was passionate about farming and loved all his animals.

"He worked hard, but still found time to stop for a chat,” with Dorothy emphasising: “a chat which would go on for hours”.

She continued: “He loved milking until he gave it up recently, and had great interest in rare breeds. He was as good as any vet, and could give advice on how to treat any animal.”

George appreciated his friends and neighbours greatly, Dorothy said.

“He valued the support of his lifelong friends and neighbours at Cullentra, and constantly said: ‘I couldn’t have better neighbours – they'd do anything for you, day or night.”

Reflecting on how George lived, Dorothy said: “He enjoyed the simple things in life and looked forward to ‘wee trips’ out on a Sunday, with me doing the driving so that he could see everything around him – he wouldn’t want to miss a thing!

“He was much loved, and we will miss him dearly.”

George Edward Maguire was laid to rest on June 29. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; children Heather (Stephen) and Iain (Shannon); and his grandchildren, Charlotte, Hannah and Ruby.

He was predeceased by his sister, Annie. His funeral service took place in St. John’s Parish Church, Fivemiletown, and he was buried in the adjoining churchyard.

The service was led by Precentor Hanlon, and funeral arrangements were carried out by Marcus Madill Funeral Director.