Tragic Ward Patterson’s friends praise ‘great young gentleman’

Ward Patterson, from the Shore Road in Upper Ballinderry, was a former student at Greenmount Agricultural College and a member of Crumlin Young Farmers Club.

Among the many tributes paid to the 21-year-old on social media, one post on Facebook said: “Another young life, destroyed, wasted, with the world at his feet and a full life still ahead of him. Very, very sad.”

Another said: “My whole heart and soul, I’m so shocked and heartbroken for my absolute best mate just wish I coulda done so much more...hope ur looking down on me Wardo.” ❣️

One friend replied to that message saying: “Such sad news, a great young gentleman”.

The Crumlin YFC has cancelled a scheduled meeting due to be held this evening, however, the Memorial Hall in the town’s Main Street will be open from 7pm for anyone wishing to sign a book of condolence.

In a statement published on social media, the club said: “The members of Crumlin YFC are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of much-loved club member Ward Patterson. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad time.”

In his last Facebook activity – shortly after 1am on Sunday – Ward posted the message: “Shout out to all of the people who haven’t felt okay lately, but still manage to get up every day and refuse to quit. Stay strong.”

One friend posted her response yesterday.

She said: “To all his friends out there please, please if something is bothering you or annoying you please don’t go down this road talk to someone anyone”.

Another close friend said; “Can’t believe I was in London and all this was going down, my true angel. I love you – always watch over me.

“And thanks for teaching me how to jive as it was ur favourite thing to do. Would never pass without stopping and having a chat. Gone too soon my love. So much ahead of you.”

A number of other Young Farmers clubs have also expressed their condolences to the family of a young man one described as “the most kind hearted chap anyone could meet”.

One friend of Ward’s also expressed concern for his parents.

She said: “Heart goes out to Eddie Sharon and kids...know the pain they will go through...such a gorgeous young man.”