Tributes have been paid to a founding member of the Lough Neagh Rescue organisation who has been praised for “saving the lives of countless people” in Ireland’s largest body of water.
Billy Mullen, who co-founded the rescue service in 1989, died on January 1, and has been described by colleagues as a “leader on land and water” for his tireless work during searches and training sessions.
Mr Mullen, from Portadown, founded the team with others alongside friend David Gray Sr, whose son drowned in the lough in a tragic boating accident.
In a tribute to Mr Mullen, who was recognised in the 2016 New Year’s Honours list for his rescue work, a spokesperson for Lough Neagh Rescue said: “Billy served in Lough Neagh Rescue for over 25 years and during his time was a long serving Coxswain, saving the lives of countless people.
“From wiring the first lifeboat in the service and using his wide range of mechanical skills, to training and mentoring other crew, Billy was generous with his time and extensive knowledge to ensure the lifeboat was always fit for service, and the crew under his command would make it safely back to base.”
The statement, posted to Facebook, added: “A leader on the water and on land, Billy also served Lough Neagh Rescue as a training officer, board member and chairperson.”
A death notice described Mr Mullen as the “much loved and devoted husband of his wife Anne, cherished and devoted father of Finn, Timo and Tam and precious grandpa of Skye, Pixi, Mara and Oran, much appreciated father-in-law of Katie and Sarah”.
A funeral service for Mr Mullen will take place on Saturday at Portadown’s Edenderry Memorial Methodist Church.
