MLA’s tribute to ‘salt of the earth’ Armagh man after death in collision

A CO Armagh man killed in a two-vehicle collision has been described as one of life’s “genuine salt of the earth” individuals.

Edwin Kennedy, who was known as Eddie, died following a crash involving a car and a lorry (below) on the Monaghan Road on Wednesday morning.

The married man, who was aged in his early 60s, lived at Kilcreevy Road, close to Armagh city, and had driven an oil lorry for a living.

Mr Kennedy was on his way to work in his car when the collision took place around 7.15am.

The PSNI had previously said the deceased had been “fatally injured at the scene”.

Newry and Armagh MLA William Irwin said he had known Mr Kennedy for around 25 years.

“He was always one of this world’s salt of the earth people,” he said. “At one time he drove a lorry for Fane Valley and he lifted milk from my farm and I got to know him from that.

“We had known each other for around 25 years.

“His wife Hilary is devastated. My thoughts at this very difficult time are with his wife and entire family.”

Describing Mr Kennedy as a “gentleman”, the DUP MLA said news of the Armagh man’s death had sent shockwaves through the community.

“It has shocked everyone,” he added.

“He drove an oil lorry and would have been very well known. Eddie was a very quiet, genuine person.

“He was a very conscientious and considered person. A lot of people in the farming community would have known him. It’s very, very sad.”

The MLA added Mr Kennedy was a well-respected member of First Keady (The Temple) Presbyterian Church.

A death notice described Mr Kennedy as the “dearly loved husband of Hilary and dear brother of Sylvia, Barbara and William”. Funeral arrangements have yet to be released.

Family members asked for donations in lieu of flowers to be made to First Keady Church.

Meanwhile, a PSNI investigation into the collision is ongoing, with officers appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with any information, or dash-cam footage available, can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 187 15/01/20.