Mr. Patrick McIlhone

THE community of Killyleagh was shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Pat McIlhone on January 8, 2015, at his home, The Wood, Shanes Road, Killyleagh. He was 46.

Pat, who was born on March 17, 1968, was one of the great characters of Killyleagh and had a life-long passion for all things equestrian.

His father, Sean, was a keen horseman and, growing up in that environment, Pat developed a love of horses as a child which was to stay with him for the rest of his life. He was both gifted and patient when handling and working with horses of different temperaments.  As a result, his expertise was often called upon.

Pat was also skilled in making jumps and fences for friends and neighbours and also for Killyleagh Show of which he was a committee member.

He also went to the trouble of creating a small cross-country course beside his home so that others could enjoy the sport and be guided by his knowledge and talent. Pat also on many occasions rode with Killultagh Old Rock and Chichester Harriers and the East Down Hunt.

He worked for Clarke Cunningham Tree Maintenance for almost 20 years and later as a groom for Mr. and Mrs. Boyd of Rademon, near
Crossgar. 

Aside from horses, Pat enjoyed his country lifestyle, gardening and growing flowers and vegetables which he generously gave to local friends.  Always with a ready smile, he displayed kindness and offered friendship to everyone he met and always ready and willing  to help anyone who needed him.

Pat’s funeral was held on Sunday, January 11, and it was fitting that his remains were brought by horse-drawn hearse to the Church of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Killyleagh, both horses having performed the same duty at the funeral of his father in December 1999.

Requiem Mass was celebrated by the Very Rev. Fr. Eugene O’Neill, P.P. followed by interment in the local cemetery, Killyleagh.

The affection which people felt for him and the regard in which he was held was reflected in the size of his funeral, which was one of the largest seen in the district for some time. 

Pat, who was also predeceased by his mother, Kathleen, in 1997, is survived by his brother, Thomas, sister, Rose Mary, Thomas’ partner, Louise and twin nephews Jordan and Daniel.