'˜First lady of Ballymoney' Mollie Holmes dies aged 101

Mrs Mary J (Mollie) Holmes OBE - often referred to as ‘the first lady of Ballymoney’ - was a justice of the peace and a former mayor of the borough having entered local government in 1955 as the first female councillor in the area.

She was elected, and remained, an independent member until stepping down in 1985 after 30 years of continuous service.

Mrs Holmes worked tirelessly for many public and voluntary bodies, including the Northern Health and Social Service Board, Ulster Tourist Development Association and the NI Probation Board.

Her other interests included working with the Robinson Hospital Committee, Ballymoney Evergreen Club and the Royal British Legion.

Causeway Coast and Glens deputy mayor Darryl Wilson said the former first citizen “made an invaluable contribution” to the district over many years.

“Mrs Holmes also filled the position of chief citizen faithfully and honourably for a period of eight successive years which is an achievement in itself. The legacy left by Mrs Holmes has inspired me and will continue to inspire others for generations to come.

“Thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends at this sad time.”

DUP alderman John Finlay said he was greatly saddened at news of her passing, and said the town “will never be the same again”.

Mr Finlay said: “For more years than I can remember, Mollie was at the centre of the civic life of the town, and up until the end of her life she continued to take an interest in all that was going on.”

Mr Finlay added: “I extend my heartfelt sympathies to her son, James, and the family circle at this time. May it be of some comfort to them to know that the town of Ballymoney shares in their grief and sense of loss”.