Northern Ireland

Mourners told former chief librarian of Belfast’s Linen Hall Library was `absolutely devoted' to family

The funeral of John Killen, the former chief libarian of Belfast's Linen Hall Library, took place yesterday in Loughinisland. Picture by Mal McCann
The funeral of John Killen, the former chief libarian of Belfast's Linen Hall Library, took place yesterday in Loughinisland. Picture by Mal McCann The funeral of John Killen, the former chief libarian of Belfast's Linen Hall Library, took place yesterday in Loughinisland. Picture by Mal McCann

THE former chief librarian of Belfast’s Linen Hall Library was yesterday remembered as someone who was "absolutely devoted" to his family.

Mourners gathered at St Macartan’s Church in Loughinisland for Requiem Mass for John Killen, who died on Sunday.

The much-loved husband, father and grandfather was aged in his late sixties.

The Loughinisland man's first job was at Belfast’s Central Library before he joined the Linen Hall as an Irish reference librarian in 1977.

He was later appointed deputy librarian and then chief librarian.

An acclaimed author, his works included The Irish Christmas Book and The Second Irish Christmas Book.

His A History of the Linen Hall Library 1788-1988 provided a chronological narrative of the first two centuries of the facility, while other publications looked at Irish drinking habits and Irish political cartoons.

A keen Gaelic footballer, Mr Killen had been a member of the Queen’s University freshers first-year team who won an All-Ireland in 1973.

He also represented Down at senior level in football and hurling.

Former Down GAA players were among the mourners yesterday.

Speaking to those gathered, Fr Ciaran Dallat said Mr Killen had had a lifelong passion for education and sport.

He said the Co Down man had been "absolutely devoted" to his family and had "adored" his grandchildren.

Fr Dallat said Mr Killen had joined the Linen Hall Library in 1977 and had been "instrumental" in securing it for future generations.

"He told his family that his job never felt like work for him and he was known for approaching it with passion," he said.

"John enjoyed travel. He was never happier than when he was with his family on the ski slope.

"He remained passionate about Gaelic and he was very proud of his many sporting achievements."

The parish priest said Mr Killen retired in 2015 and within a few years was diagnosed with prostate cancer, fighting the illness with "fortitude and dignity".

"He never complained and he showed inspirational courage throughout," he said.

"He remained active despite his illness and stayed with his family until his death.

"His loved ones take great comfort in the memories they have of him".

Following Requiem Mass, Mr Killen was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery.