MR. Jack Ferris, who has died aged 87, was an immensely popular figure in the Drumsnade area near Ballynahinch.
He was born on July 8, 1925, the eldest son of Paddy and Alice Ferris. He married his wife, Madge, on October 29, 1958, and the couple had six sons, Paddy, John, Malachy, Brendan, Paul and Mark, and three daughters, Margaret, Noeleen and Rhona. They were later blessed with 24 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
Jack was a loving husband and father. His ability to show his love to all was a great virtue and blessing. He had a great sense of humour, always had a smile on his face and put warmth into his words. He was highly respected and was described as a true gentleman by all who attended the wake in the family home.
In his early days he worked as a labourer at Castlenavan quarry. He later drove a lorry for Townley Bros., of Carryduff, and for Savage Bros., of Ballynahinch.
However, his heart lay on the Drumsnade Road where he grew up and had his pig farm. Everyone who knew Jack also knew of his pigs.
He appeared regularly on Hugo Duncan’s radio programme along with the ‘Lord Mayor of Drumsnade’ and the stories that were broadcast gave him many a hearty laugh and put Drumsnade on the map.
He had a great interest in sport. He was a GAA supporter and would never miss following the Down team up and down the country. Snooker was another interest and he delighted in the success of his grandson, Eamon, who is ranked No. 1 in the under 14 category in Northern Ireland.
He was a man of great faith. He said his prayers daily and prayed for all, irrespective of religion, colour or creed. He never forgot his roots.
Jack sadly passed away on May 10 in the Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, where he had been a dialysis patient for the past 18 months.
His largely attended funeral illustrated his popularity in the community. Interment took place in St. John the Baptist cemetery, Drumaroad, a quiet country graveyard adorned with the sound of singing birds and the shouts of children playing at the nearby school — a peaceful setting for a gentle and caring man who enjoyed both family and country life.
Jack was predeceased by his sisters, Mrs. Mary Bridget Harte (Ballynahinch) and Mrs. Eileen Barlow (Drumaness), and brothers Hughie (Drumsnade) and Paddy (Ballymena).
Sympathy is extended to his wife and family.