William ‘Booey’ Young: Tributes pour in for Kells bandsman who died after Ballymaconnelly Sons of Conquerors Flute Band parade

It is understood he became unwell during a parade through Rasharkin with his band, Kells Sons of William on August 21.

He had been taking part in the Ballymaconnelly Sons of Conquerors Flute Band in Rasharkin.

His death notice says :’(Suddenly) William (Booey). Devoted Husband of Diane 103 Lettercreeve Ballee Ballymena.

‘Precious Daddy of Billie and Cameron (Partners Winston and Cora) Loving Brother of Tam, Jimmy, Sammy, Robert and Sarah also a dear Brother-in-law of Joanne, Christine, David, Janet, Michele and Donna and a Dear Uncle’.

It adds ‘Funeral arrangements to follow’.

The death notice says: ‘Family and friends welcome to call at His home Sunday Monday & Tuesday 3pm till 9pm. ‘Donations if desired for N.I Chest heart & Stroke association or Antrim Area Hospital Breast care unit. c/o James Stevenson & Son 30 Cushendall Road Ballymena BT43 6HD’.

TUV leader Jim Allister also paid tribute to Mr Young saying: ‘I am greatly saddened by the sudden death of bandsman, William 'Booey' Young, following Friday night's parade in Rasharkin, at which I was present.

‘William was a valued member of Kells Sons of William band and was on parade on Friday night when he fell ill.

‘The suddenness of his death has added greatly to the shock and loss deeply felt in the Kells and Ballee communities.

‘I join in expressing deepest sympathy to his wife, Diane and children, Billie and Cameron.

‘The bands community is also feeling the shock and loss after the tragic events that unfolded at the Rasharkin parade.’

And tributes online include:

• ‘No words can express what to say to you diane and family. We are devastated for you all still can’t believe what I am seeing. My heart breaks for you all my beautiful friends such sadness xxx’
• ‘So sorry to hear the sad news Diane Caughey Young , Booey was a real gentleman a true legend and will be missed , thoughts and prayers with you and all your family at this difficult time’
• ‘Always a smile on his face Booey, so sorry Diane to hear of this sad news, nothing prepares you for it thoughts and prayers are with you all in the hard days ahead’