Mr. Gerry McCormick

MR. Gerard (Gerry) McCormick, who passed away peacefully in Strangford Court Nursing Home, Downpatrick, on June 18, aged 83, was an esteemed figure in local football and will be sadly missed.

Son of the late John and Bridget McCormick, from Drumaness, and the youngest of seven children, he is survived by his brother, Brendan.

Gerry was married to his beloved Eileen, who sadly passed away 24 years ago. They had four children, Frances, Declan, John and Justin, and eight grandchildren, three of whom live in Australia.

He spent his working life in the building trade, starting as an apprentice joiner with Taggarts of Downpatrick at the age of 14. He worked on numerous projects in Ireland and the Isle of Man.

Gerry was well known in football circles. He represented Northern Ireland at U-21 level against England at Anfield, scoring one goal in a 5-2 defeat.

He played for numerous local and Irish League clubs, but perhaps valued most the times he played for Drumaness Mills.

Having finished his playing career, he turned to management and enjoyed great success with Maghera FC. He also refereed in the Irish League and scouted for Portadown.

He was patient and uncomplaining during the final years of his life and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

 

His funeral took place in Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Newcastle, on June 20, and was attended by a large section of the local community. A very touching mass was conducted by Fr. John Coughlan and burial took place at St. Macartan’s Old Cemetery, Loughinisland.