A woman recounts losing her ‘one-in-a-million husband’ in the Omagh bombing, highlighting lasting grief and family impact.
His daughter, Louise, gave a statement. She remembered her dad as hardworking, good, and decent. He was devoted to his family and had a gentle and kind spirit.
Louise said they were lucky to have him but wished they had more time together. She explained no words could describe their loss, and the fear from that day never leaves.
Her mother lost her best friend and her one-in-a-million husband. Brian was very patient and kind; Louise never heard him raise his voice. They were blessed to have him as their father.
Louise and her siblings missed out on a relationship as their father never met their partners. They visit his grave on their wedding days, and it’s heartbreaking he didn’t meet his grandchildren.
Brian worked in the family business and drove his “beloved Crafty Catherine.” It was a crane he fixed often, and as kids, they played in the crane’s cab and in the mills while he worked.
Brian loved taking family photos and went to Omagh to develop them and get a prescription. He liked a quiet life and enjoyed time with family and friends.
Life is different without him, and family events are overshadowed by loss. They always remember their missing husband and father, who was their gentle giant.
Lord Turnbull called Brian a caring, patient family man. The bombing left his children with great loss, and it’s tragic that his love of photos led to his death.
