The death occurred peacefully at the South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen of Eddie Kelly of Coolcrannel, Maguiresbridge.

Eddie passed away on November 22, aged 85 years. He was born on March 15, 1934 in Annaheel, Magheraveely to the late Robert and Alice Kelly. He had one older brother, Bertie, who passed away in March 1995.

Following his education in Lisroon School he took up employment driving a milk lorry to the creamery for Sonny Elliott who turned out to be his father-in-law later. He gave many friends and neighbours lift on route. He married Sonny and Florence Elliott's daughter Moirid on July 19, 1961 in Clones Parish Church.

Eddie purchased The Riverside Bar, Maguiresbridge in September 1960. It is known fondly to many locals as “Eddies”. Him and Moirid worked hard together to build up a great business and made many good friends along their journey.

Eddie was a man famous in the local area for his “big smile” and gentlemanly nature. They had three children, two daughters, Pearl and Iris and a son Rodney. Eddie was devoted to his family and got great enjoyment from his grandchildren. He loved telling them stories and jokes and when he was finished, he always had a bent finger up and would say ‘that’s the truth.’

They celebrated 50 years in business together on September 1, 2010 and sadly Moirid passed away shortly after on January 20, 2011.

Eddie continued working on until his health declined in 2018.

He was a life long member of Inver Flute Band. He was always lifting the flute at home and even in the bar, giving the customers a few tunes, especially on the Twelfth evening. He loved the band and it was very fitting that they played for him one last time at his graveside.

He was also a lifelong member of both Inver Temperance LOL 920 and Lackey RBP 785. He was a member of the Ulster Special Constabulary and they gave a mark of respect at his graveside. He also enjoyed farming and had a farm in Mullycavan, Rosslea.

Eddie’s popularity and the high esteem in which he was held was very evident at his widely attended funeral service at Christ Church, Maguiresbridge, on Monday, 25th November, 2019, followed by interment in the adjoining churchyard.

The service was conducted by the Revd. Canon Watson and Revd. Abraham Storey. The readings were delivered by Eddie’s grandchildren, Rebecca, Kelly and Mark Beacom. The chosen hymns were ‘How Great Thou Art,’ ‘Nearer My God To Thee’ and his favourite hymn ‘What A Friend We Have In Jesus.’

Eddie is survived by his daughters Pearl and Iris; his son Rodney; his sons-in-law Basil and Nigel; his daughter-in-law Anne; his grandchildren Robert (Andrea), Stacey, Stewart, Rebecca, Kelly, Mark and Nathan and his great grand-daughter Sara. He will be very sadly missed by all his family and family circle.

The funeral arrangements were by T. Moffatt and Son, Main Street, Lisnaskea and S. R. Elliott, Enniskillen.