A much loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Mrs. Amelia Elizabeth (Betty) Ferguson passed away peacefully at her home Tonnagh, Derrygonnelly on April 8, 2016, aged 92 years.

Formerly Robinson, Betty was born at Shane, Churchhill on May 28, 1923, the eldest of four children of William and Emily Robinson. She grew up at Dresternan, Derrygonnelly and was educated at Cornerk National School and served her apprenticeship at Taylor’s shop Derrygonnelly.

During World War 11 she went to England and was employed in a munitions factory in Leicester where she assisted in the war effort. Betty was awarded for 10 years of full attendance with a gift and then returned home to marry Loftus Ferguson in 1954.

They set up home and built up a dairy farm at Tonnagh, Derrygonnelly where they brought up their three sons Ron, Alan and Robin. Betty focused on her home and family and played an active role in Inishmacsaint Parish Church where she sang in the choir and was organist for 64 years. She was very proud and delighted when in 2012 Inishmacsaint Parish recognised her loyalty and devotion and presented her with a watch.

Life dealt Betty a severe blow in 1978 when her second son Alan was murdered while on duty with the Ulster Defence Regiment. She bore this with great fortitude but with a lot of sadness.

Betty worked in Elliott’s Bakery and gift shop in Derrygonnelly and then Derrygonnelly Surgery which she enjoyed and where she made many friends. 

She was devoted to her grandchildren and attended their baptisms, confirmations, graduations and marriages. 

She enjoyed travelling and went on many holidays to different destinations with the assistance of the UDR Benevolent Fund.

The funeral service held in Inishmacsaint Parish Church was conducted by the Rev. Canon David Skuce assisted by Mrs. Eileen Cutler, Diocesan Reader. The hymns were Immortal Invisible, In Christ Alone and Be Still My Soul. 

Her grandchildren took part in the service with the readings read by Stephen and Dr Louise Ferguson, while the soloists were Alan and Zara Ferguson. She was laid to rest beside her husband Loftus and son Alan.

Betty is survived by her sons, Ron and Robin, daughters in law Olga and Jennifer, grandchildren Stephen, Alan (Julie), Karen (Rodney), Louise, Diana, Trevor, Mark, Hannah and Zara and great granddaughter Lillyann, and also her sisters Violet and Ida. 
She was predeceased by her husband Loftus in 1990, her son Alan in 1978 and her brother Herbie.

The funeral arrangements were carried out by W.T Morrison, Darling Street, Enniskillen.