'We will carry his memory with us': Tributes paid to motorcyclist killed in Co Antrim crash
Tributes have been paid to a “true gentleman” who died in a crash in Co Antrim on Monday morning.
Jim Wylie, who was 60-years-old, tragically passed away following a collision involving a car and a motorbike in the Crankill Road area of Ballymena at the junction of Tullygrawley Road.
Detective Inspector Stewart from the Collision Investigation Unit said emergency services attended but “sadly the motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene”.
The road had been closed for a time before fully reopening.
Mr Wylie will be laid to rest at Clough Presbyterian Church on Friday, April 17 at 1pm.
Leading the tributes was Follow Coffee Co on Facebook who posted: "Jim became our landlord and later enabled us to own this building that he loved. A gentleman and a man we owe a great deal and will never forget."
Also posting on Facebook, Ballymena-based JB Door Systems said they were "truly heartbroken" at Mr Wylie's passing.
A statement online added: "Jim was a friend first and foremost, long before he ever worked alongside us. He was part of our lives for many years, someone who supported, encouraged and believed in us, including when we took the step to purchase our commercial premises. Jim and Andrea were often our “unofficial board”, a reflection of the trust, guidance and steady support they gave us over the years.
"He was a true gentleman, with a warmth and kindness that made people feel instantly at ease, and a quiet strength that so many of us leaned on. He brought more than just his work, he brought his presence, his reassurance, and his unwavering support. He meant a great deal to all of us, and to so many beyond our business.
"His loss will be felt deeply across our entire team, many of whom knew him not just as a colleague, but as a friend.
"We feel incredibly lucky to have known him, and we will carry his memory with us."
Local sports group Ballymena Runners stated how they were “deeply saddened” by the passing.
“Jim was the husband of our long term member Andrea,” a spokesperson said on Facebook.
“Our hearts are heavy and thoughts are very much with Andrea and her family.”
Love Property Estate Agents, who are also based in Ballymena, said it was with “deep sadness” that they heard of Mr Wylie’s passing.
“Jim was a gentleman who was always very upbeat and carried a smile everywhere he went,” they posted on Facebook.
“Jim was an old school businessman that inspired so many small businesses over the years.”
Building and property development company AMD Homes also passed on their condolences.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Wylie,” a spokesperson published on Facebook.
“We have worked alongside Jim for many years, a true gentleman who was always on hand to give advice. He will be sorely missed.
“We are thinking of the team at JB Door Systems and Jim's extended family and send our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.”
Police say their enquiries into the collision are ongoing and appeal to anyone with information could assist with their investigation to contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 101, quoting reference number 376 13/04/26.”