Sam McClenaghan was one of the oldest and most determined members of the McGurk’s Bar Campaign for Truth.
The Belfast man’s stepfather, Philip Garry, was among 15 people including two children murdered when the UVF detonated a bomb in the North Queen Street pub in December 1971.
Sam helped to identify the 73-year-old’s remains when he found a key on his body and travelled back with it to the family home. The key fitted the lock and Sam opened the door, confirming the family’s worst fears.
From that day on he dedicated his life to seeking truth and justice and preserving the memory of all the massacre victims, including combatting security force attempts to blame the IRA – and thereby implicate innocent victims as bomb-makers.
Ciarán MacAirt, whose grandmother Kitty Irvine was also one of those killed, said Sam was a beacon of strength and resilience in his community.
“Sam was our leading light and inspiration. No matter how stressful the protest or fraught the court appearance, Sam’s effortless smile and warmth put us all at ease,” he said.
“Despite the dreadful setbacks that our Campaign for Truth faced over the last 53 years, Sam’s unconquerable positivity and infectious smile gave us great strength. Even when he was unwell in later life, a photograph or a message always reached us to let us know that we had his support.
“One of our most cherished photographs of Sam is one we received recently after the Attorney General ordered a new inquest for the victims of the McGurk’s Bar massacre. This was a history-making win, secured by Sam and the families after more than half a century. He was in hospital but he still has that irrepressible smile. That smile is how we will remember Sam McClenaghan.”
Mr MacAirt added that Sam’s life was defined not by the McGurk’s Bar atrocity but by his love for his family.
Reared in Frederick Lane, near the old Irish News offices in Belfast city centre, he worked in the building trade and was the devoted husband of Lily. They married in 1953 and settled in the west of the city.
“Together, they raised six wonderful children. Lily sadly passed in 1976. Their 13 grandchildren were the pride and joy of Sam’s life.”
Mr McAirt added: “Beyond his campaigning, Sam was known for his kindness, his infectious smile, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. His friends and neighbours admired his integrity and his unwavering sense of justice. Sam’s door was always open, his advice always sound, and his spirit always generous.
“He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice.”
Sam McClenaghan, who was a great-great-grandfather, died aged 94 on Monday. Predeceased by his wife and daughter Mary, he is survived by his children Robert, Theresa, Gerard, Bernadette and Elizabeth.