'The Glen parish has lost a true icon' - tributes paid to Co Derry furniture store owner

A furniture store owner from Maghera, who sadly passed away yesterday, 'dedicated a lifetime of devotion and service' to his local GAA club.

Michael McKeefry Snr died peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday.

The south Derry man founded McKeefry’s Furniture Stores back in 1982 with branches in Maghera and Ballymena.

Earlier today, the business announced the sad news of Michael's death via social media and stated that the shop will be closed on Saturday, February 28 as a mark of respect.

Hundreds of online tributes have been paid to the late Mr McKeefry with many of those who knew him describing him as ‘a gentleman’.

One man said: “Only the fondest memories of Michael over a lifetime of knowing him. The Glen parish has lost a true icon. Sincere condolences to the McKeefry family. RiP Michael.”

Another tribute read: “A Glen man to the hilt and one of life’s gentlemen. His family are his legacy. Sincerest condolences to all.”

The father-of-four was a dedicated member of his local GAA club, Watty Graham’s.

The club stated: “All at Watty Graham’s GAA are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Michael McKeefry Snr.

“Mickey dedicated a lifetime of devotion and service to Watty Graham’s. He first represented Glen as a player before going on to serve the club with distinction in a number of prominent administrative roles, most notably as Chairman and, in more recent years, as Honorary Trustee.

“In bygone times, when Glen had no permanent home, Mickey - alongside others - showed remarkable foresight, wisdom and total commitment in securing the grounds at Tirkane Road and Falgortrevy Road. The state-of-the-art facilities we all enjoy today stand as a lasting testament to Mickey and his fellow committee members of that era.

“During lean years, when on-field success was not always forthcoming, Mickey remained loyal, steadfast and unwavering in his commitment. He truly stayed the course. There was no prouder man than Mickey McKeefry when he watched his grandson, Connor Carville, lift the Andy Merrigan Cup in Croke Park in January 2024 - a fitting reward for a lifetime of dedication to his club.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Geraldine, Martin, Benny, Michael Jnr, and to the entire McKeefry and Carville families at this very sad time.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Mr McKeefry will be laid to rest on Saturday following Requiem Mass at 2.30pm in St Patrick’s Church, Glen.

Predeceased by his wife Elizabeth (Betty), Michael is survived by his children Geraldine Carville, Martin, Brendan and Michael and extended family.