Mrs Iris Skillen

MRS. Iris Elizabeth Skillen (née Finlay) passed away on the morning of Saturday, May 30, at her home, 38 Main Street, Castlewellan, peacefully and quietly, with her sons, Norman and Ernie, by her side.

Iris was the wife of the late George Skillen, mother to Norman, Ernie and the late Carson, sister to June and Barbara, and grandmother to Fergus, Rachel and the late Anna. She was predeceased by her brother, Bill, and sister, Nora. 

Iris brought happiness, laughter, warmth, kindness, love and compassion to those whose lives she enriched. She brought her own special love and presence to her family, relatives and friends.  Very kind and caring, she would always put the needs of her family and friends first.

A native of Ardglass, she met her husband, George, at Curran’s Hall in Newcastle and married in 1961. Raising her family became her focus. Having lost her son, Carson, in 1973 to cancer aged three, she had the courage, faith and love to continue to raise her remaining children. 

A lady with generosity of spirit and time for all, she was much loved and respected.  With her kind and gentle nature, she always lit up the room.

Iris spent many years at Chambers’ dental surgery as the receptionist, before becoming a successful business lady, running Skillens The Jewellers in Castlewellan for 33 years with her lady-like manner, her profound tastefulness, and attention to detail that gained the respect of many. Iris had a word and a smile for all in the local community and beyond. 

During the early 1970s she founded the Castlewellan branch of the Women’s Institute, and brought together ladies from both sides of the community to work together on a range of activities. Iris enjoyed played golf during the summer at Royal County Down.

Iris was active in the Presbyterian Church. She was a member of the choir in Ardglass Presbyterian for many years as a young lady, and also for decades in Castlewellan. She was a true Christian, not only in her church goings, but in how she led her daily life. Iris was a talented pianist with the keys never far from her hands, playing each piece with grace and serenity. 

Her sons would like to thank those who cared for their mother in her later years, including her care workers, nurses and the excellent doctors of Donard Group Practice.  

Iris was of nature’s true ladies, angelic and kind, who will be missed so much.

Her funeral service in Castlewellan Presbyterian Church on Tuesday, June 2, was followed by interment in Drumee Cemetery, Newcastle.