THE community in and around Downpatrick was saddened to learn of the death of Mr. Gerry Laverty at his Saul Brae home on Monday, June 10. He was 72.
He was born on August 8, 1940, the youngest son of the late Leo and Mary Jane Laverty, and was predeceased by his brothers, Pat, Oliver and Aidan, and sisters Roseleen and Sara.
He is survived by his wife, Doreen, who he met 54 years ago on the very same day that he passed away, and by their seven children, Gary, Elaine, Linda, Leona, Helga, Petrina and Mark and their families, including 22 grandchildren with whom he gained so much happiness and fun. He is also survived by his youngest sister, Margaret.
Mr. Laverty was born and bred in Ballyculter and took over the family farm and home when his father died. His son, Gary, and his family live there today.
He worked on the dairy farm for many years and also had several business ventures, including a fruit shop, fashion, antiques and a chip shop.
He also worked with the Electricity Board for a time.
He sold the farm in 1984 and became a successful publican at the Old Mart Bar in Market Street, Downpatrick, where he made many good friends.
His family moved to Saul Road in Downpatrick before moving to their current home at Saul Brae.
Mr. Laverty was a jack-of-all-trades and a perfectionist in any job he undertook. He took great pleasure in his garden where he spent many years hours — it was his little piece of Heaven.
His family, including his nephews and nieces, meant everything to him. He was always up to mischief, teasing and playing pranks — anything to get a laugh.
He was also known for his love of music and enjoyed many singsongs in his home.
The huge number of callers to the family home and those in attendance at the funeral were testimony to his popularity.