AS A founder member of the party and its chairman for a quarter of a century, James McClure was a "father figure" within the DUP.
A close friend of former leader Ian Paisley, he was also a fixture in Coleraine borough council across five decades, only standing down this year at the age of 88.
William James McClure was first elected a councillor in the town in 1977 and would serve as mayor three times and deputy mayor on 11 occasions.
He also simultaneously represented his party on Ballymoney council for a brief period in the 1980s and was a member of the 'Prior Assembly' from 1982-86.
Mr McClure was a traditionalist in politics and religion, a Free Presbyterian who spoke out against Sunday trading and sports, once even opposing a proposal by party colleague Sammy Wilson to temporarily open MoT centres on the Sabbath to relieve backlogs.
North Antrim MP Ian Paisley jnr described him as a "dear friend". "Jim helped my family loyally over the years," he said. "When my father was in prison Jim helped look after our home and family. "He was one of my father's most trusted and closest friends. His loss will be felt by us all."
Outside politics and the Independent Orange Order, Mr McClure worked in the concrete industry and competed in the Commonwealth Games in bowls.
He died on August 3 and is survived by his wife Isobel, son Ian and daughter-in-law Lyn.