RAFA stalwart was ‘much-loved’ in town

Henry Gough Sharkey (Harry), a former chairman of the Carrickfergus branch of the Royal Air Forces Association, died last Tuesday. He was 78.

Family and friends were joined by hundreds of former military colleagues at a service of thanksgiving for Mr Sharkey’s life on Saturday, where regimental and ex-service standards were on display.

Born in Belfast in 1936, Mr Sharkey enjoyed a distinguished military career. He joined the Royal Air Force in 1954, serving as an aircraft technician.

It was during his time at RAF Ballykelly that he met his wife, Kathleen, then living in Limavady. After spending a period in England and abroad, the couple moved back to Carrickfergus in 1968.

He also served in the Ulster Defence Regiment and the Royal Irish Rifles.

It was whilst serving in the RAF in the Far East that he became involved with the Malaya & Borneo Veterans Association (MBVA).

Last year, he donned full MBVA regalia at the Carrickfergus Remembrance Sunday parade. Such was the respect in which the MBVA held Mr Sharkey that it sent him to Malaysia last year to join in its national celebrations.

Mr Sharkey was also awarded the Pingat Jasa Malaysia medal, an honour bestowed on those who served in Malaysia in the 1950s and 60s.

His was also a familiar face during the annual collections for the RAF Wings Appeal, along with parades for Remembrance Sunday and Armed Forces Day.

Among those paying tribute to Mr Sharkey was Dr Sam Grant, of Christchurch, who officiated at the funeral service.

“Harry joined the UDR in 1971 as a part-time solder because he wanted to serve his country. During his service, he was mentioned in despatches for gallantry,” Dr Grant said. “He was one of four UDR soldiers from Northern Ireland to represent his regiment at the Royal Albert Hall during the Festival of Remembrance. For many years, he took part in the standard bearers’ competition in Carrickfergus.”

Dr Grant added: “Harry was a member of Christchurch for many years and I knew him well. He brought a great dignity to everything he did and he was a much-loved man in the town.”

Mr Sharkey is survived by his wife, Kathleen, children Esther, Harry, Thomas and Pauline, and seven grandchildren.

A committal service was held at Roselawn cemetery.