Castlederg mourns passing of generous business owner

A ‘GENEROUS and kind’ Castlederg business owner has been laid to rest following his sudden death on New Year’s Day.

Brian Earley, who was known for his generosity and kindness, and had a thriving steel business in America, died whilst on holiday in Spain.

On Sunday, Reverend Paul Fraser presided over the requiem mass, welcoming friends and family from both Castlederg and the United States. During the service, two of Brian’s American friends, Carl and Patrice, laid a white gown over his coffin as a symbolic gesture.

“Many have been shocked since of Brian’s passing and today so many people have gathered from both sides of the Atlantic to mourn his sudden departure,” said Rev Fraser.

Brian, born on October 17, 1960, was the youngest of six siblings. His early life was marked by a dramatic entry, the congregation was told, being baptised at just one day old due to the “danger of death.”

Despite the perilous start, Brian survived and was cherished by his parents and siblings.

He left Castlederg in 1999 for San Francisco with Gilbert Coyle, and eventually established his own company, Emerald Steel.

“He had great success in America as he worked hard,” said Reverend Fraser, “and he shared boundlessly with family and the community back home.”

The Tyrone Masters GAA, in a statement online, expressed gratitude for Brian’s role and support, highlighting his pride as a Castlederg and Tyrone man.

“Brian was a very kind and generous man, not only to the Tyrone Masters but to various charities,” they said.