One of Kinawley's best-known and well liked characters, Terry Smith, from Carnview died last month in the Erne Hospital. He had been a patient there for a short time, having previously spent time in the Graan Nursing Home where he had the consolation of being near his only sister Kathleen, a resident there.

He was 77 years, and was the son of John and Ellen Smith, Clonfane, Kinawley, one in a family of 15 children.

He was born in an era when living was much harder to cope with than today, with no employment and very little money. But, he was willing to work and found employment with local farmers, working sometimes from dawn to dusk.

During his lifetime, he spent some time working for the local Council, but in later years he became more involved with helping out in the parish where he looked after the cemetery, the church and parish hall.

Terry had a great interest in the local football club and he did work around the park, and dressing rooms.

The Drama Club and Festival Committee were very appreciative of all the help that Terry had given them throughout the years. He was always there and only too willing to help out in any way at short notice.

Terry enjoyed a strong friendship with all the clergy who served the parish down the years. He was a very intelligent man, was quick witted and was a great conversationalist who could recall the past with ease.

He was a faithful Mass goer and loved to go to Knock every year for the annual pilgrimage, and gave out the Rosary on the bus. He loved children and they liked him. One of his favourite trips was up to Mullan Mart every Sunday for a bit of banter. His preferred mode of transport for most of his life was the bicycle. He did own a car for a short while many years ago, but went back to the bicycle.

Terry Smith will be sadly missed, Kinawley village will not be quite the same. It will be equally strange his absence from funerals in the church. .

Kinawley area is poorer by his death. He was one of the old stock that are fast fading away, and taking with them a wealth of information, kindness and sense of humour.

The high regard felt for Terry by the entire community was very much in evidence by the large attendance of mourners who were present at the removal of his remains from the Erne Hospital to St Naile's Church, Kinawley. A very impressive guard of honour was formed by the members of the Football and Drama Clubs in which Terry had been active over the years.

Father Gabriel Kelly CC received the remains. In the congregation were Fr Johnny Cusack PP Coothill, a former curate, and Canon Brian Mc Namara, PP, Killlesher

The funeral Mass was celebrated by Father Kelly who was assisted by Fr Donald Hannon PP Swanlinbar, and Fr Gerry Comiskey Cavan, a former Curate.

Burial was in the adjoining cemetery.

The deceased is survived by one sister, Kathleen Maguire (Boho), and by nieces, nephews and a large collection of relatives and friends.