Ballynahinch businessman and fire leader is laid to rest

Ballynahinch businessman and fire leader is laid to rest

7 February 2024

BALLYNAHINCH came to a standstill on Saturday for the funeral of Stephen Barr.

Mr Barr, who was 58, died suddenly at the Ulster Hospital in Dundonald last Tuesday, January 30.

Mr Barr was a highly respected member of the community in Ballynahinch, which he served in various ways over many years.

His family owned Stewart & Gibson, the long established Main Street business, where he was extremely popular with colleagues and customers alike.

He was a long-serving member of the NI Fire and Rescue Service and was Watch Commander of the Ballynahinch station.

Fire personnel from Ballynahinch and other local stations paid tribute to a much-loved colleague, forming part of the cortege, headed by a fire appliance, which made its way to Edengrove Presbyterian Church for the largely attended funeral service on Saturday afternoon.

Many businesses also closed for a time as a mark of respect.

The funeral service was conducted by the Rev Mairisine Stanfield, after which Mr Barr was laid to rest in Lough Inch Cemetery.

Mr Barr is survived by his wife, Cindy, son Jason, daughter Stephanie and the wider family circle.

In a Facebook post, his daughter thanked everyone who had shown support for the family in the wake of their tragic bereavement.

In a poignant message to her father, she added: “We all love you so much and wish we could have had another kiss, hug or memory.”