Mr. Michael Morgan

MR. Michael Joseph Morgan died at his home, 9 Cargagh Road, Annacloy, Downpatrick, in the early hours of December 26, 2014. He was 74.

Affectionately known as Mickey, he passed away surrounded by his family after a six-month battle with cancer. He was a much loved father and grandfather and a popular character in the local community.

Michael was born on September 29, 1940, to Denis and Ellen Morgan. One of ten children, he was devoted to his parents and siblings.

Michael was educated at the local primary school in Teconnaught before moving to St. Patrick’s Secondary School in Downpatrick. He went on to find employment in Belfast.

In his younger days Michael had a great interest in stock car racing and would travel to all parts of the country to take part in races.

He worked alongside his brother, Patsy, in the Festival cinema in Crossgar where many a night’s fun was had. In the 1960s he made an appearance on TV in the popular BBC programme, Roving Reporter, in a feature about the then famous Annacloy Fairythorn.

While working in the Purdysburn Hospital in the 1970s Michael was hugely involved in the running of The Burn Club, which provided entertainment for staff and raised money for the patients’ comfort fund.

It was while working in Purdysburn that he was to meet Mary, the love of his life.

After marrying Mary in 1975 and the arrival of his two children soon after, Michael eventually settled in Annacloy on the Cargagh Road. Michael was dedicated to his family and had a great passion for the locality and its people.

As the years progressed, Michael’s love of music and entertainment saw him become involved in Teconnaught Accordion Band. Michael also helped manage and maintain St. Columba’s Hall in Teconnaught, from which he found great pleasure. He was immensely proud of the hall which is regularly used by all age groups.

Michael’s requiem mass was held in Holy Family Church, Teconnaught, on Sunday, December 28, and was celebrated by Fr. Paddy McCafferty. He was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery.

Michael is survived by his wife, Mary, daughter Gail, son Gavin, son-in-law Daniel, daughter-in-law Eimear, grandchildren Brendan, Jennifer, Sarah, Aoife and Ruairi, and the extended family circle.