There was a strong representation from the media, music and the arts at the funeral of Ms Joan Trimble (85) in Enniskillen yesterday. The musician and newspaper proprietor died on Sunday two weeks after the death of her husband, Dr John Greenwood Gant.
The service, in the Scots Church, Enniskillen, was conducted by Dr Howard Cromie, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church, and former minister of the Enniskillen congregation. He said Ms Trimble had many achievements in her active and varied life, from musical performances at the age of four with a local drama group to playing in concert halls in the British Isles over many decades. He also referred to her role as managing director of the Impartial Reporter until she handed over to her daughter, Mrs Joanna McVey.
The chief mourners included her son, Nicholas and daughters, Joanna and Caroline. She is also survived by five grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
A reading from the Letter of St Paul to the Corinthians was given by her son, Mr Nicholas Gant.
The organist at the service was Mr David Byers, Head of Music for the BBC in Northern Ireland.
Among those who attended the service were artist T.P. Flanagan and his son, the sculptor, Philip Flanagan; Mr Kevin Mitchell, General Manager of the Ulster Herald group; Mr Norman Armstrong, former managing director of the Tyrone Constitution; Mr Willie O'Hanlon, managing director of the Anglo-Celt; Mr Marshall McFarland, managing director of Lithoforme printers and Mr Dick Hughes, managing director of Wholesale Newspapers Ltd also attended.
Ms Trimble will be cremated at Roselawn Crematorium, Belfast this morning.