There has been a huge outpouring of sympathy for the family circle since news of the double loss emerged
18:52, 01 Nov 2025Updated 00:16, 02 Nov 2025
Eileen and Henry Lavery
Tributes have poured in for a husband and wife from Co Antrim who died just hours apart as they were laid to rest on Saturday.
Eileen (nee Hannon) and her husband Henry Lavery passed away peacefully at Craigavon Area Hospital this week surrounded by their family.
Eileen, 90, passed away on Tuesday, October 28 while Henry, 88, died the following day on Wednesday, October 29.
Late of Orken Lane, Aghalee, a death notice shared by the couple’s family stated: “Deeply regretted by sons Aidan, Gerard, Andrew and Barry. Daughters-in-law Rosemary, Martina, Patrina and Jeanie. Proud grandparents of Ryan, Niall, Ciaran, Cormac, Coilin, Owen, Ronan, Laura and Clodagh.
“Eileen is predeceased by her brother Josie and sister Phyllis. Lovingly remembered by siblings Betty, Angela, Bernie, Teresa, Eamon and Seamus.
“Henry is predeceased by his brothers Willie-John, Patrick, Peter, Malachy and sisters Mary, Cecilia and Sarah.”
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Tributes have been paid to the couple, who were married for decades, with Eileen’s niece writing in a message shared online: “Hours apart …. my lovely auntie & godmother Eileen Lavery and her devoted husband Henry. Thank you both for all the wonderful childhood memories. Rest in Eternal Peace.”
Another family member said: “May Uncle Henry & Auntie Eileen’s beautiful souls now forever be at Peace with the Prince of Peace & as they are laid to rest today may they be reunited in Heaven with all their cherished family & friends who have gone before. Sending all our love & heartfelt sympathies to Aidan & Rosemary, Gerard & Martina, Andy & Patrina, Barry & Jeanie and all their families & family circle. May the fond memories you hold dear bring a little solace & comfort in the days & months ahead. Tá tú inár gcuid smaointe agus paidreacha. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha dílse.”
Another mourner added: “So sorry to hear this sad news tonight thinking of all the family at this time such a lovely couple.”
A nurse who cared for Eileen said: “The sweetest lady with the biggest heart and a pleasure to nurse in ramone. The love she had for her family was unmeasurable . She only ever looked forward to getting home to her hubby! May they both rest together in peace.”
While another person said: “How beautiful! One will not know life without the other! A true everlasting love and bond ! So very hard for the family, but take comfort that are at eternal rest together.”
A joint funeral for Eileen and Henry was held on Saturday at St Patrick’s Church, Aghagallon, with the couple buried alongside one another in the adjoining cemetery.
Donations have been requested for Marie Curie in lieu of flowers.
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