A large number of mourners at the funeral of Lee Asher

Lee Asher, 21, died when he was hit by a truck on Tullywiggan Road in Cookstown, less than a mile from the college, just before 3:45 p.m. Wednesday.

He studied for a degree in food business management at Loughry.

Pastor Andrew Roycroft led a service at Portadown Baptist Church on Sunday (April 11).

He said, “It was a very, very big turnout. The church was filled to overflowing and even more. Lee comes from a wonderful and very sweet family.

“There was an atmosphere of clearly grief, but also an atmosphere of celebration and gratitude for Lee’s life, which was beautiful.

“There was an outpouring of grief, but also a sense of joy for who he was and what he represented for his family.

“It was a wonderful rally of people who came to support and express solidarity with the family.

“I led the service, and then Li’s brother and sister brought tribute, which was very touching and touching.”

Lee lived on Brook Road in the city and was a former student of Waringstown Primary School and Portadown College.

He was well known as a part-time sales assistant at Woods Centra on Dobbin Road in Portadown and also at CAFRE’s Lowry campus.

Last week, Centra owner Philip Woods said the tragic news had silenced everyone in the store.

“He was the best guy. Lee would do anything for anyone.

“He is the first to laugh and go a little crazy. I can’t say enough good things about him.”

CAFRE Director Martin McKendry said, “Lee was a bright student in our food business management department and was a popular member of the CAFRE Loughry Campus community.

“Unfortunately, he will be missed by his fellow students and CAFRE staff who are being supported.”

Pastor Roycroft said that it can be especially difficult for a family when such a young person is killed.

“I am glad to report that this is not a common thing,” he said.

“You are acutely aware of the deep trauma of the family, and as a pastor your main concern is to try to offer comfort and comfort and help to them, and you are very aware when it is someone so young that you really feel it very deeply. “.

The PSNI has asked anyone who saw Lee or the truck in the area at the time of the collision, or who has any relevant dashcam footage, to contact police on 101 with reference to link 1165 on 04/06/22.