Tragic Loss of Gareth richardson: A Beloved Father and Community Pillar
The community of Keady, Co. Armagh, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Gareth Richardson, a devoted father, husband, and cherished friend, who tragically passed away following a workplace accident earlier this month. Gareth, affectionately known as ‘Paddy,’ succumbed to severe injuries sustained in an electrocution incident on Annvale Road on January 10.
Emergency services, including police, ambulance, and firefighters, rushed to the scene shortly before 10am. Gareth was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he passed away on January 22, leaving behind a devastated family and community.A poignant online tribute described Gareth as a “loving and devoted husband of Sarah, adored daddy of Travis, Ella-Marie, Jorgie, and Bradley, cherished son of Ann and the late george, treasured brother of Nigel (Julie) and Darren (Dorothy), and a much-loved uncle of Jake, Becky, and Curtis.” The family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Willowbank Surgery, the ambulance Service, the Rapid Response Team, and the Royal Victoria Hospital ICU for their care and support.
Gareth’s funeral service will be held at Thomas Street methodist Church on Monday at 1pm, followed by a committal at Kernan Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance, a service that played a crucial role in Gareth’s final moments.
Tributes have poured in from across the community, highlighting Gareth’s impact on those around him. A spokesperson for Portadown Football Club expressed their devastation, stating, “Everyone at Portadown FC is devastated to learn of the passing of Gareth Richardson. We pass on our heartfelt sympathies to Gareth’s wife, children, mother, brothers, and the whole Richardson family circle at this sad time.”
The Hillhaven Flute band, where Gareth was a past member, remembered him as a “good friend” with a “great sense of humour and the best character to be around.” His employer, David Jameson Roofing Services Ltd, described him as a “great character, very pleasant, thoughtful, and someone who took great pride in his work.”
A close friend shared,”Devastated to hear of the passing of Gareth Paddy Richardson. He was a character and, like his dad, loved portadown FC. Many memories of him from Shamrock Park, bumping into him in the town, and always a good laugh and a conversation.”
Gareth’s untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the wider community. His legacy as a loving father, dedicated worker, and cherished friend will continue to shine brightly in the memories of those who knew him.
| Key Details | Information |
|———————————-|———————————————————————————|
| Name | Gareth ‘Paddy’ Richardson |
| Date of Incident | January 10, 2025 |
| location | Annvale Road, Keady, Co. Armagh |
| Date of Passing | January 22, 2025 |
| Funeral Service | thomas Street Methodist Church, January 27, 2025, at 1pm |
| Donations | Northern Ireland Air Ambulance |
The community is encouraged to keep Gareth’s family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. His memory will forever remain a beacon of love, laughter, and kindness.