Coleraine Orange Lodge and local business pay tribute to Barry Freeman

Mr Freeman had been missing since December 22. Police announced on Monday (January 2) that they were no longer searching for him following the recovery of a body in the Coleraine area.

In a statement on social media yesterday, Killowen Purple Heroes LOL 930 wrote: “Earlier this evening, the Officers and Brethren of Killowen Purple Heroes LOL 930 were regrettably informed of the passing of our dear friend and lodge member, the late Barry Freeman.

"Barry was our Chaplain and was proud to be at the forefront of our lodge. He was a quiet, unassuming character within our ranks and was well-respected locally. Barry was a hard-working man and loved nothing more than taking trips over to Scotland and England to represent Killowen Purple Heroes in an immaculate fashion laying wreaths on our behalf in Glasgow and Blackpool on numerous occasions.

"As a Lodge, we take great comfort in how the local community, members of the public and loyal orders rallied in an attempt to locate our Brother via pleas on social media and on the streets of our town and for that, we are grateful. We thank you for your plethora of messages and well wishes in recent times and it truly demonstrates a great deal of strength and togetherness in what has proved to be a frustrating and emotional period.

“We are indebted to the Community Rescue Service and the PSNI for their hard work, support and determination during the multiple searches that took place and we place on record our deepest thanks to them for locating Barry.”

Local business RightPrice Coleraine for whom Mr Freeman had worked said: “It is with deep sadness that the Pollock family and all the staff of RightPrice learned of the confirmed passing of our colleague Barry Freeman.

"Barry had been a valued member of our team since 1999 and will be missed by all the staff. He was not just our co-worker but our good friend as well.

"On behalf of all of us here at RightPrice, we offer Barry’s family and friends our most heartfelt condolences and sympathy at this difficult time. We would like to thank the PSNI and CRS for their tireless work over the last week.”

Mr Freeman was also well-known in local drama circles, having been involved with Coleraine Provincial Players for many years.

They said: “Unfortunately we have to report that our dear friend has been found but the outcome is not the one we all hoped and prayed for.

"Rest In Peace Barry, you were one of life's gentlemen and a valuable member of the CPPs, never would you pass without a hello or a quick chat asking about friends and family each time.”

A Funeral Service for Mr Freeman will take place in Killowen Parish Church on Friday at 1.30 pm, followed by interment in Coleraine Cemetery. Donations if wished by making cheques payable to Community Rescue Service, c/o Ms Charlene Wade, 3 Upper Abbey Street, Coleraine, BT52 1BF.