THE widow of a Crossgar man killed in a road accident last weekend has appealed to drivers to show more consideration to motorcyclists.
Father-of-three Dermot Morris (42), was on his way to work at the Royal Mail’s sorting office in Mallusk outside Belfast last Friday evening when his motorbike was struck by a car in Saintfield.
His grieving wife Andrea said her husband was a particularly careful motorcyclist and would often recall stories when he returned home from work about how close he came to being struck by other vehicles.
In the wake of last weekend’s fatal accident, Mrs. Morris has appealed to all drivers to be careful on the roads and to watch out for motorcyclists.
She said her husband’s death would not be in vain if motorists exercised more caution and thought more about motorcyclists.
Mrs. Morris said her family has also been overwhelmed by the level of cross-community support they have received with people from all denominations calling at the family home at Rademon Avenue in the village to extend their condolences and to offer their prayers.
Mr. Paddy Milligan, a brother-in-law of Mr. Morris, has paid a glowing tribute to his relative, describing him as a “wonderful man, who lived for his family.”
He continued: “Dermot was loved by everyone. He was a true gentleman and someone who was totally dedicated to his wife and three children. He was an all-round great guy who always had a smile on his face.
“It was a pleasure to be in his company and his family are naturally devastated at what has happened. The loss of someone who was held in high regard by all who knew him is a tragedy.”
Mr. Milligan said his brother-in-law was a fantastic handyman who could turn his hand to virtually anything and was a very good painter and decorator.
“Dermot was also a black belt and a karate instructor in Ballynahinch. He will be sadly missed by all of us, none more so than his wife Andrea and children Gareth (19), Natalie (16) and Oonagh (9),” he continued.
“Dermot lived for his family and was totally dedicated to his wife and children. Everyone who knew Dermot shares their pain and grief at this very sad time.”
Mr. Morris was buried yesterday at Teconnaught cemetery following a service of Requiem Mass at St. Joseph’s Church in Crossgar.