Acknowledgement from the family of the late Martin Laverty

Patricia and the family of the late Martin Laverty would like to express their sincere thanks to all those who visited the house, sent messages or cards over the weekend of 21st November.

Thanks to all those who brought refreshments for the weekend. A special mention must go to Siobhan and all the girls in the kitchen who kept all visitors supplied with a cuppa tea, and nibbles. Chairs and delph appeared, delivered by 2 parishioners Paddy and Maurice who knew exactly what was needed at the time of a wake. Father Devlin attended the wake and conducted a short signed BSL service.

 Also to those who attended the funeral, with especial thanks to Magherafelt and District Motor Club who provided a guard of honour at the chapel. 

The 3 men who marshalled the road over these days did a sterling job on a very busy and dangerous stretch especially when foggy. Thanks also to  the men who marshalled the chapel car park on the morning of the funeral and thanks to the 2 grave diggers who prepared the grave in Lavey cemetery.

Over this past 8 and a half years Martin was attended by medics from the oncology departments at The City Hospital (Belfast), Guys Hospital (London), The Royal Hospital (Belfast) and Antrim hospital, along with Garden street surgery (Magherafelt). A special Thanks must go to the nurse (Maureen) in Garden Street Surgery who had to administer Martins 3 weekly injection, which she did with the greatest of kindness and tenderness.

In the latter months Helping Hands care team (Maghera), helped facilitate the care of Martin. Marie Curie nurses also called with Martin which was a great support to Patricia, in discussing his care. The Occupational and physiotherapy teams, made sure that Martin was as comfortable as possible; whilst the district nurses saw to his medical needs. The chiropody department also visited Martin in his home.

Over the final 6 months, the ambulance service and the first responders who attended the house did their job with the utmost kindness and compassion. 

Thanks to Michael and Nicky Gormley who guided the family through the administrative side of a funeral. They acted in a very professional and sensitive manner.

Lastly, but most importantly, a huge heartfelt Thanks to Father Graham, who attended Martin and visited when called upon, irrespective of the time of day. He made the requiem mass a very special reflection of Martins life.

Una Magill (music) and Donna (the BSL Interpreter) added greatly to the service.

Thanks, seems such an insufficient word, at a time like this; but thank you all.

Martin’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Lavey, on Sunday 21st December at 11am.

👉 Watch the Mass Live