Dermie McClenanghan with Eamonn McCann back in October for a Civil Rights protest picture gathering
The Derry man was one of the organisers of the October 1968 civil rights march in the city which many credit for changing the course of history in Northern Ireland.
From that day a spotlight was shone on the cause as pictures were beamed around the world of civil rights protestors being attacked on the street by police.
The October 5 1968 Duke Street March in Derry had been organised by local activists, with the support of the Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association (NICRA).
NICRA had formed in 1967, and drew inspiration from the campaign for equal rights in the US.
Dermie’s health was deteriorating at the time but he wanted to be their to honour the occasion.
Following his passing, people in Derry have taken to social media to pay tribute.
John O’Neill said: “It is with a heavy heart that I pass on the news that our beloved friend Dermie McClenaghan left us last night. His likes will never be seen again.”
An “absolutely heartbroken” Michael O’Donnell said Mr McClenaghan was “among the finest men” he ever knew.
“He was kind, generous, thoughtful, considerate, a true socialist who believed in fair play and respect for everyone,” Mr O’Donnell added.
“And he practised what he preached. You’ll read a lot of eulogies about Dermie in the coming days. Believe every word of them. Our world is a lot poorer today, the next one considerable richer.
“To Dermie’s friends, and they are many, we are all feeling each other’s pain. And to Pauline, his wife, soul mate and love of his life, all of Derry is throwing it’s arms around you right now. Xx”
Dermie McClenaghan who has sadly passed away
While SDLP leader Colum Eastwood expressed his sadness.
“A true socialist, a real rebel and probably, the nicest person I have ever met. He was there at the beginning. We’ll miss him,” the Foyle MP added.
A socialist to the end, one of Dermie’s last posts on social media said: “As Oscar Wilde said, ‘To recommend thrift to the poor is both grotesque and insulting. It is like advising a man who is starving to eat less’.”
Dermie will be waked at his home from 12 noon tomorrow, Christmas Eve, December 24, until 10pm.
Funeral arrangements to follow.
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