Northern Ireland

Co Armagh family `heartbroken' following tragic death of father-of-three in Mauritius

Francis McCarville had been working on the island of Mauritius when the accident happened
Francis McCarville had been working on the island of Mauritius when the accident happened Francis McCarville had been working on the island of Mauritius when the accident happened

A FUNERAL service will take place in Co Armagh on Wednesday for a father-of-three who died while working in Mauritius.

Francis McCarville, who was from Hamiltonsbawn, died last Wednesday when an accident occurred as he laid football turf.

It is believed Mr McCarville, who worked for Clive Richardson Ltd - a sports ground construction company, was hit by a vehicle.

A spokesman for Clive Richardson Ltd said everyone at the company was "deeply saddened" by what had happened.

"Francis was a dedicated employee who had been with the company for eight years. We offer our sincere condolences to Francis' family and colleagues and will endeavour to provide all the support we can".

Posting on Facebook, the father-of-three's daughter, Laura said she was "heartbroken" by what had happened.

Those who knew Mr McCarville also took to Facebook to post their tributes to him and express their condolences to his family.

One friend said: "Your dad was one in a million Laura. I have some great memories of him. So sorry for you all" while another added: "Words cannot express how sad I feel for your loss... Your Daddy was a star, and will continue to shine on you all".

Another friend posted: "Truly devastating Laura. Such a shock to everyone. He will be sorely missed. Sending all our love to your family during these difficult times".

Councillor Jim Speers said Mr McCarville's family had been left "completely devastated" by the tragedy.

"They are literally numb with grief. You think and hope it will never happen to you or someone you know, but this is an unwelcome reminder that it does," he said.

Mr Speers said Mr McCarville was "decent man" who had many friends who all speak "very highly of him".

A funeral service for Mr McCarville will take place today at 2pm at Aghavilly Parish Church followed by burial in the adjoining churchyard.