Sad passing of 'one of Strabane's great characters'

TRIBUTES have been paid following the sad passing of one of Strabane's much-loved residents, Joe Cullen.

Mr Cullen, aged 99½, passed away peacefully at his home on Lower Main Street on Thursday, November 5.

Requiem Mass took place at the Church of the Immaculate Conception on Sunday morning.

In his homily, Rev Michael McCaughey, parish priest, told mourners Mr Cullen was "a remarkable man who showed us example of living life in its fullness."

He continued: "Joe Cullen lived his long and full life, developing a relationship with Christ, and that was reflected in his daily living.

"A man who no doubt appreciated people, and that gift of time, and, indeed, God's precious gifts.

"He was so committed and so proud of the fact that he collected the baskets at this Mass each Sunday.

"We celebrated with him his 99th birthday year on that Sunday morning, and that was so appreciative of this man.

"A man, who in many ways, took that duty of collecting that he has done for about 37 years. So appreciative of family and of community."

Born in Bayonne, New Jersey, alongside his mother and family circle, Mr Cullen settled in Strabane.

He was "so family orientated" and was immensely proud of his roots, Fr McCaughey said.

He met and married his late wife, Bernie, creating a loving family home for his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mr Cullen, the priest added, "worked tirelessly, even to his final days."

"He was a mechanic, and, of course, worked for years at DuPont, and, indeed, a few weeks ago, was still searching for the parts and helping the family in the backyard.

"Someone said to me very beautifully, and it sums up, this man, Joe Cullen was the essence of Christianity.

"He was civil. He was a well organised man.

“His knowledge of plumbing, electrical work, if someone had a problem, with plumbing, central heating, or the car not starting - Joe was out and did all he could.

"A very good man, respected by so many.

"Good to know, that even today, people like this and people like Joe, are still about doing things and not expecting anything in return.

"That's a statement of Joe Cullen from a neighbour of many, many years.

"He enjoyed shooting and hunting with the family circle, and again, that spirit of family, he enjoyed watching the Gaelic and watching the family take part.

"He often enjoyed going back to America. Even going there, I think, no later than last year, at the remarkable age of 98 or 99.

"Recalling those memories, visiting his family and creating memories for others. Lower Main Street was his place.

"Today, we give thanks to God for his life, his love, his commitment, and we trust that he is at peace."

A highly-respected figure in the town, tributes have been paid to Mr Cullen with many expressing their sadness and offering condolences to his family.

Paying tribute, the Strabane GAA Memories Facebook page said: "Everyone associated with the GAA in Strabane wish to extend their heartfelt and sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late Joe Cullen, Lower Main Street on their sad loss.

"One of Strabane’s great characters, Joe was approaching his 100th birthday in a few months time and up until recently was still carrying out the weekly collection at the Church of the Immaculate Conception.

"Joe was a great supporter of the Sigersons club over many years following the fortunes of his grandchildren Ruairí, Ryan and Louise McElroy, the length and breadth of Tyrone and beyond.

"He will be sadly missed by so many, thoughts and prayers are with his children Frankie, Jim, Joanne and Jonathan, his grandchildren, great grandchildren and the entire family circle."

Mr Cullen was also a lifelong member Bracken Gun Club, serving as its president.

"Joe was one of the founder members of the club and instigator of a new sport to Strabane," a spokesperson said.

"His constant work and support was massive and we as a club will miss his participation and enjoyment of the sport

"To his family please accept our deepest condolences at the passing of this gentleman."

A multitude of tributes have also been paid online with many speaking of a "true gentleman" and "an absolute gem of a human."

West Tyrone Sinn Féin MLA., Paul Boggs, said: "Joe was a character, someone who definitely lived life to the full.

"I got to know him from working in the Head of the Town shop when I was younger and enjoyed chatting to him when I’ve met him since then.

"My thoughts go the wider Cullen family. I know just how much this loss will be felt by them. Rest in peace Joe."

Strabane independent councillor, Raymond Barr also extended condolences.

"When I started in Christy's 25 years ago, Joe was one of the first to offer words of wisdom and friendly advice," he said.

"A much loved and highly respected man. Sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Following the funeral service, Mr Cullen was laid to rest in Strabane Cemetery.

He is the beloved husband of the late Bernie, much loved father of Frankie (Caroline), Jim (Paula), Joanne (Jonathan) and Jonathan (Paula), dearly loved grandfather of Louise, Ruairí, Ryan, Seahda, Sorcha, Adam and Joshua and brother of the late John, Frankie and Isobel.