‘We take inspiration from Owen – how he lived his professional live, how he refused to bow to illness, how he selflessly protected those around him, his bravery and courage’
Tributes have been paid to a devoted Co Antrim dad who has passed away aged 38 after a long illness. Owen William Gregg from Ballymena died on August 2, with tributes flooding in online for the “beloved husband, loving dad-of-two, much-loved son, and cherished brother”.
Employers, Property and Financial Services Agent Rainey & Gregg, said Owen was “loved by all who knew him” and was “devoted to his family”.
READ MORE: Matthew Starkey: Tributes to much-loved teacher after cancer battleREAD MORE: ‘A genuine and kind person’: Tributes as former Alliance councillor dies at 35 after cancer battle
Their tribute posted on social media reads: “It is with the deepest sorrow and utmost regret that we announce the sad passing of our colleague, son, brother and friend, Owen Gregg, who sadly passed away on Saturday evening.
“Loved by all who knew him, Owen was devoted to his family, his wife Dawn, and two girls, Callie and Cara, protecting them to the end. He was so proud of his girls.
“His wider family were proud of the remarkable way he conducted himself. This has become a bit of a cliche, but it was remarkable. Refusing to give in to a setback, maintaining a positive attitude, making others his priority, enjoying and appreciating life. He encapsulated all that is good – people wanted to be around him and felt better being with him.
“The outpouring of grief and countless messages online and in private show the regard Owen has held in. One word keeps coming up – gentleman. He was a gentleman in the sense we all associate, but he was also a gentle man.”
It added: “Always thinking of others, Owen went above and beyond in the workplace for both his clients and his colleagues, spending time and care to ensure they got the best possible advice and guidance. He was good at his job because he genuinely cared about the individual, and made many friends from clients.
“His presence in the office lifted those around him, we looked forward to him returning after periods off through illness, he made things better.”
The tribute also read: “We take inspiration from Owen – how he lived his professional live, how he refused to bow to illness, how he selflessly protected those around him, his bravery and courage. His spirit will live on amongst us and he will be in our thoughts every single day.”
One person commented: “Owen was such a genuinely nice guy, one of the good ones. Would have never passed without saying hello. Thoughts are with his family at this very difficult time.”
Another tribute added: “I was deeply saddened to hear about Owen’s passing. He was not only a wonderful agent but also a genuinely kind and thoughtful person. Working with him was always a pleasure — he brought warmth, professionalism, and sincerity to everything he did.”
A third said: “A true gentleman and one of the best people you could ever hope to meet. Owen will be missed and remembered every day.”
A notice from James Henry Funeral Services said: “Beloved husband of Dawn, loving father of Callie and Cara, much loved son of Pat and Ian, cherished brother of Ryan, Conor and Cara, brother-in-law of Joanne, Claire and Aidan, son-in-law of Raj and David, brother-in-law of Kelly and Neil, dear uncle of Jamie, Georgie, Emmylou, Sofia, Lucas, Nina, Danny, Joni and Elliot.
“Funeral service in Antrim and Newtownabbey Crematorium on Friday 8th August at 2pm. No flowers please, donations in lieu, if desired, may be sent to James Henry Funeral Services, 100 Broughshane Street, Ballymena BT43 6EE for Cancer Fund for Children.”
It added that family and friends welcome to call at his childhood home.
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
#Young #Antrim #dad #died #illness #remembered #inspiration
