Tributes have been paid following the death of former local councillor and DUP stalwart Sam Hanna, who passed away suddenly at home on Tuesday 7 March.
Mr Hanna served the community for over 20 years, in both Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and the former Ballymena Borough Council.
DUP Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP has paid tribute to his party colleague.
Sir Jeffrey said:
“I am deeply saddened to learn of Sam’s passing. Sam was a dedicated local representative for the people of the Braid area for over 20 years. He was someone deeply rooted in the North Antrim constituency and a passionate unionist.
"Sam’s association with the Party goes back many years, and before he entered elected politics he suffered the loss of his wife so tragically when a bus carrying party members crashed near Carrickfergus in 1992. As Chair of Bannside DUP for many years, he was the source of encouragement to so many colleagues and his sense of fun will be missed by everyone.
"My thoughts are with all of Sam’s family at this time of loss. I hope they will be comforted by the huge affection in which Sam was held by so many and take comfort from his firm faith in the Lord Jesus Christ."
The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams, also shared his sympathies saying:
“I was saddened to hear of the passing of former councillor Mr Sam Hanna.
“Sam served on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and prior to that with Ballymena Borough Council.
“I extend my condolences to his family, friends and party colleagues.”
A funeral notice for the well-known Glarryford man has been published by James Henry Funeral Services. It states:
'Hanna Samuel (Sam) 7th March 2023, suddenly, at his home, 4 Tullyreagh Road, Glarryford, Ballymena.
'Much loved husband of Ellen and the late Hester, loving father of Samantha, Alan and Judith, father-in-law of Sam, Claire and James, devoted grandfather of David, Jessica, Michael, Daniel and Matthew and dear brother of David and Wilbert.
'Funeral service in Rasharkin Free Presbyterian Church on Saturday 11th March at 1pm, interment afterwards Cullybackey New Cemetery (Fenaghy Road) arriving at approximately 3pm.
'House private. Family flowers only please, donations in lieu, if desired, may be sent to James Henry Funeral Services 100 Broughshane Street, Ballymena BT43 6EE for Free Presbyterian Church Mission Board.
'Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his wife, family and family circle.'
“Precious memories how they linger”
“At Home to be with the Lord”