Mr Raymond Boyle

RAYMOND Boyle’s many friends in the Ballynahinch area were shocked and saddened by his sudden, but peaceful death on May 14, just two months before his 50th birthday.

Ray was widely known as ‘Spencer,’ a title given to him by his friends in his early teens after the famous TV character Frank Spencer, who was known for getting into all sorts of difficult situations, but coming through with hilarious results — just like Ray.

Michael Crawford played the character and was famous for doing his own stunts. You could say the same about Ray. He certainly did all his own stunts and from an early age he was a natural at making people laugh with his crazy antics and wicked sense of humour.

Ray lived all his life in Ballynahinch, apart from a spell working in London. He was a good tradesman and there was no shortage of craic when he was on site. He once took part in a charity trip to Romania with a building squad — just one example of his generous and friendly nature.

He was a keen fisherman and a regular in the Ramery Inn where his wit and humour were much appreciated. Everyone had a story to tell about ‘Spencer.’ He was such a popular character with people of all ages.

Sadly, none of his friends knew that time was not on his side. A comforting fact for them is that he died peacefully in bed and that his last thoughts would be for his friends, family and children, whom he loved dearly. He will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered.