Mrs Mary E Kennedy, aged 94, was called home on 9th September. Saved at meetings conducted by the late John Finnegan and David Leathem in the Castledawson area, she was later baptised and received into Bellaghy assembly in April, 1969. She was highly esteemed for her diligence and faithfulness to the assembly until her sudden homecall. A lover of the gospel in the homeland and abroad, she was hospitable and kind in disposition. The funeral was large and representative, because of the esteem in which she was held. The service was taken by D McGarvey and J Lennox, with local brethren sharing. Her two daughters are in assembly fellowship. Prayer is valued for her three sons and the family circle.
Mr Wilby Mayne, of Craigyhill, Larne. On 21st August, aged 89, our beloved brother passed peacefully into presence of the Lord from Antrim area hospital. Saved on 4th October, 1960, he was a foundation member of the assembly at Craigyhill, when it commenced in June, 1963, and continued steadfastly in life and testimony. Well known in his home town, he loved children's work and open air gospel preaching. Active up right up to within one week of his passing, he had taken part in thanksgiving on the last Lord's Day he remembered the Lord, and shared in the gospel that evening. His wife Margaret and family of four, with their partners, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, mourn his loss. His large funeral service from the Gospel Hall was shared by his local brethren.
Mr William (Willie) Robinson, aged 93, went to be with Christ on 1st September. He was saved as a lad of 13 when Mr Moneypenny was having meetings in the Gospel Hall at Lurgan. He was later baptised and received into the assembly at Kilmore, Co. Down, and was in fellowship there for the last 45 years. He with his wife Madge have been faithful, valued members of the assembly at Waringstown. He also with others carried on a Sunday School in Moira for 50 years. The funeral from Waringstown Gospel Hall was conducted by J Watson, P Dogherty and R Pickering. His two sons Billy and Bobby gave fitting tributes. Prayer is also valued for his four daughters.
Mrs Winifred Thompson (née Boyd), aged 91, was called home to be with the Lord on 25th September. Winnie was saved as a girl of 7 and attended a Baptist Church before coming into fellowship in Victoria Memorial Hall, Belfast. Winnie married Max in 1947, and they were in fellowship in the Frances Street Assembly, Newtownards. Her husband's career in local government took them to Limavady, where Max was Town Clerk. In July 1983, they were commended to the assembly at Comber Road, Dundonald. Winnie was in fellowship there for some 30 years, and her late husband was a highly respected elder. Winnie was active in the Sisters' meeting and had a strong interest in children's work. She was a great encourager. Winnie was widowed in 2005, and spent the last 2 years of her life in Faith House. A lady strong in faith, she was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Her funeral service was conducted by D Gillespie, I Johnston and G Hall, with a tribute by her son Stephen; and D Johnston and G Hall took part at the graveside. Prayer would be appreciated by the family circle.
