It is with regret that we at www.longkeshinsideout.co.uk learn of the death of an old friend and comrade. Geordie Withers–better known by his nickname The Bear–passed away at the Ulster Hospital on Tuesday 30th December. he was 62 years old. Geordie had taken ill a short time ago and sadly his condition worsened rapidly. In November a number of former colleagues met for a small function in the Toye Orange hall in support of The Bear and his family. Many stories were exchanged most of them relating to the period Geordie spent in both the Crumlin Road jail and latterly Long Kesh Prison Camp. Geordie was a stalwart in Compound 11 and was at the forefront of many of the altercations and protests we had especially in 1974. I remember Geordie at the height of the food protest in mid 74..because of his powerful build he had the task of throwing the food containers over the wire. Most of us would have struggled just to lift the containers but they presented no difficulty to The Bear.
There are many other tales–most of them funny–about the Big Man and no doubt they will be told and retold over the coming days. A funeral service will take place from George’s home at 13 Cuan Beach Killyleagh tomorrow–Friday 2nd January-at 10:30 am–followed by a service at the Church of Ireland in the town. There will then be a cremation on Monday 5th January at 9:30 am in Roselawn Crematorium.
George Withers will be remembered by all who knew him as a kind and thoughtful person…a gentle giant in many ways. His dedication all those years ago will also be remembered for ever. To George’s family we send our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with them today.
LAMH DEARG ABU
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