Mr WR Neill

MR William Robert Smith Neill passed away suddenly in hospital on January 24, 2016, aged 69.

A shocked community gathered in their hundreds to pay their respects at Raffrey Presbyterian Church where a service of thanksgiving was conducted by the Rev Brian Small, who paid tribute to a tirelessly diligent and Christian man who was a true pillar of every aspect of church life.

Known to all as WR, he was born on July 24, 1946, to Sam and Ellen Neill in Ballyalgin. He spent his life there on the farm, which meant so much to him.

Having enjoyed happy school days at Derryboy Primary School and Down High School, and later at Downpatrick Technical School and Greenmount College, he commenced employment with the Department of Agriculture in Newtownards. He moved on to Rathkeltair House in Downpatrick where he commanded the respect, trust and friendship of those with whom he worked.

Likewise, in the farming community WR was highly regarded, being able to solve complex red tape problems with ease and always striving to help others with his redoubtable good humour and meticulous attention to detail.

A man whose life was characterised by a touchingly humble and faithful duty to his church, family and community, WR ensured that every moment of his time on earth was well lived. At various times he helped out with the Lifeboys, the Boys’ Brigade and the Youth Club. A keen follower of motorcycling, he never missed the North West 200. He was also a regular blood donor and was commended for having made over 50 donations.

In 1964 WR joined Killinchy Young Farmers’ Club where he excelled as a public speaker and stock judge. He became club leader in 1969 and was awarded a scholarship to Denmark. He later became club president.

It was during inter-club activities that he met Barbara. Courtship ensued and they were married in 1978, with three sons arriving in due course.

While WR could have passed his time solely working on the farm, his sense of duty led him to volunteer countless hours over the years to causes close to his heart.

He was a lifelong member of Raffrey LOL 1115 and Royal Black Preceptory 1139, holding roles at local, district and county levels. One of his proudest moments was as County Grand Master a number of years ago.

In addition WR served as vice-chairman on the board of governors at Derryboy Primary School and as a governor at Saintfield High School. To those positions he brought wisdom and insight, and was always eager to have his gratitude for the work of those in both schools recognised and passed on to them.

Each July at Castlewellan Show, WR could he heard through the microphone giving a rousing commentary on the beef and cattle breeds and on the prize-winners on the cattle lawns.

Following his retirement nine years ago, WR continued his busy farming life. Carrying out clerical duties at Saintfield Livestock Mart was a highlight of the week. Every Wednesday he would take the opportunity to catch up with friends farmers and office staff. The café was a favourite place to visit, where WR could satisfy his love of good craic and cream buns alike.

A loving and devoted father and husband, in recent years WR and Barbara were delighted to welcome three daughters-in-law into the family. Two grandchildren in the past 18 months brought further joy to them and WR treasured the precious times when the family gathered together.

The sympathy of the local and wider community is extended to Barbara, sons Alan, Robert and Jonathan, their wives and children. William Robert Neill will be very sadly and greatly missed by many people.