‘Dad was the definition of a fighter’: NI man’s family honouring his memory

“We miss him every day. But we carry him with us.”

The family of a NI man who passed away after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer are honouring his memory.

Brian Magennis, described as a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son and brother, loyal friend, and respected businessman, died on January 16.

The Poyntzpass man was diagnosed in 2020 – facing his illness “with the strength, grace, and grit that defined every part of his life”. He initially overcame the disease, but when it returned, “he met it once more with quiet determination”.

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In his final weeks, he was cared for by Evora Hospice – formerly known as the Southern Area Hospice.

His son, Daniel Magennis, 20, said: “Dad was the definition of a fighter. He faced everything with bravery and dignity. When the illness came back, he fought to stay with us for as long as he could. When he passed, we knew we wanted to do something in his name – something that would carry his spirit forward.”

In tribute to Brian, Daniel, his uncle’s Ciaran and Marty, and a close group of family members and friends will embark on the Bike for Brian challenge: a 750-mile journey through all 32 counties of Ireland, completed in just 6 days, starting August 17.

Over the course of the ride, the team will climb a combined elevation of more than 30,000 feet – higher than Mount Everest.

While Daniel takes to the road, his younger brother Ben, 18, is playing a crucial role behind the scenes, travelling in the logistics van and supporting the team every step of the way. Alongside his cousin Isabel, Ben is also leading the fundraiser’s social media efforts, keeping supporters updated and engaged.

Ben said: “We miss him every day. But we carry him with us. This is our way of saying thank you – to the hospice that looked after him with such care, and to Dad, for the life and love he gave us.”

Brian’s family were by his side when he passed, just weeks after sharing one final Christmas and New Year together.

Ben recalled: “We all held his hand that morning. It was one of the hardest moments of our lives – but also a privilege. He gave us everything. The least we can do now is give something back in his name.”

Daniel added: “I still expect to see him sometimes – his head just visible through the window from his favourite chair as I drive up to the house. The loss is deep. But through this challenge, we are channelling our grief into something positive. We hope to raise vital funds for the hospice and honour one of the best men we’ve ever known.”

Brian’s wife, Margaret, will be there every step of the way cheering on her family.

Marty Johnston, one of the main organisers of Bike for Brian, said: “Brian was more than a brother-in-law – he was a great friend.

“He had a quiet wisdom and a great sense of humour that we all leaned on. This cycle isn’t just about covering miles – it’s about honouring a man who meant the world to us and giving something back to the hospice that gave us so much when we needed it most.”

You can support their journey and donate here.

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