Death of 'a true gentleman' who championed cause of Mayo emigrants to London

The death has occurred of Ray Armstrong, Burris, Manulla, Castlebar.

He died peacefully after a long illness at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar.

Ray was a leading figure in the Castlebar Mens Association in London for many years, providing invaluable assistance and guidance to many young people from central Mayo emigrating to the UK capital over the years.

Along with others, he championed the cause of hundreds of people from his home area who sought a new life in England, helping them find accommodation and jobs.

He is lovingly regretted by his heartbroken wife Teresa, brother Charlie, sisters-in-law Rita (Manulla), Veronica (Doyle, Sydney), Beatrice (Gallagher, Maynooth), Geraldine (McNicholas, Sraheens), Jarlatha (Kelly, Ballyheane), brother-in-law John (Kelly, Ballyheane), nephew John and his wife Michelle, nieces Oonagh and her partner Greg and Aoife and her husband Damien, relatives, neighbours and friends, to whom deepest sympathy is tendered.

He was predeceased by his parents John and Mai.

Many tributes have been paid to him on social media where he was described as 'a true gentleman.'

Ray will repose at his residence in Burris, Manulla, Castlebar (F23 PX25) today, Sunday, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Removal from his residence takes place on Monday morning at 10.30 a.m. for Requiem Mass at 11 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church, Keelogues, Ballyvary.

Ray will be laid to rest afterwards in Keelogues Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.