Stanley celebrates his 100th birthday

Monday February 19th 2024

Stanley McIlroy MBE, who celebrated his 100th birthday on February 16.

Belfast Cathedral parishioner Stanley McIlroy MBE celebrated his 100th birthday on February 16.

Stanley received a surprise visit from the Bishop of Connor, the Rt Rev George Davison, and the Dean of Belfast, the Very Rev Stephen Forde, who presented him with cards from Connor Diocese and from the Cathedral family.

A member of the Cathedral congregation for more than 60 years, Stanley was also a member of the Cathedral Board for over 30 years, and with the late Dean Sammy Crooks was instrumental in establishing the Belfast Black Santa Sit-out, now entering its 48^th year.

Stanley was awarded an MBE in 2016 for charitable services, and in December that year he and his late wife Noreen travelled to Buckingham Palace to receive the Award from Prince William.