Republican News · Thursday 30 January 1997

[An Phoblacht]

Terence Rafferty

It was with deep regret and sorrow that the people of Cappagh and indeed all over Tyrone learned of the sudden death of a good friend and comrade, Terence Rafferty.

Terence was no stranger to hardships. He joined the IRA at an early age and was soon in the thick of the battle in his native Tyrone. Subsequently, he found himself serving a prison sentence in Long Kesh, yet he never once complained, and upon his release he again assisted the Republican Movement in every way possible. Indeed one of Terence's last actions was to hold a Christmas card drive in order to raise money for the PDF, a cause he never forgot.

Terence's respect in the community was wide and this showed in the large turnout at his funeral. A large guard of honour flanked his coffin, which was draped with an Irish Tricolour, a fitting tribute to Terence's dedication and commitment to the Irish struggle.

Many a good memory and many a good yarn was spoken about Terence as he was laid to rest in Altmore graveyard.

Terence, you will always be remembered and loved by all the people of Tyrone. Sleep softly old friend and comrade.

Deepest sympathy is extended to his wife Ann, his brothers and wide family circle.

Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a anam.

Harry McCavana

The death occurred on the last day of 1996 of a dedicated republican and community worker ``Big'' Harry McCavana who was originally from the Lower Falls area.of Belfast but spent his last years living in Ardoyne.

He was interned in the early 1970s and with numerous other republicans at that time, was brutally tortured. However, because of Harry's inner desire for justice, equality, and above all, an Ireland free from British rule, his life enshrined the true dedication and commitment to achieve these goals.

Prior to his arrest in June 1978, Harry was financially secure, with a successful business and his own home on the outskirts of Belfast, and was rearing a young family. But he sacrificed all of life's comforts and stabilities.

At the time of his arrest at the age of 38, Harry was given an unmerciful beating and it is believed this ultimately contributed to his early death. He was sentenced to life imprisonment.

While in jail his first wife, Anne, died of cancer leaving their three children, Joanne, David and Ciáran parentless. Harry died leaving these same three children and his three grandchildren from whom he got so much happiness.

Harry embarked on the blanket protest with those a lot younger than himself during which he was again brutalised and humiliated. But he rose above all this and met the hardships with his characteristic dry wit.

Big Harry was released about four years ago and all of the years of incarceration and family loss did not deter him from continuing his personal struggle for his ideals.

He also happily married his second wife Jean, and both were seen together at all times. The love they shared was plain to be seen by all. In funeral his oration his lifelong comrade and friend, Martin Meehan, offered his sympathy and support to Harry's wife Jean, his children and grandchildren, his devoted sisters and extended family.

Slán tamall le laoch a d'fhulaing céasadh ar son a mhuintire. Ní dhéanfaimíd dearmad air.

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