Well known Derry man Patsy Hume, brother of the late SDLP leader John, was the definition of kindness, mourners at his funeral heard on Wednesday.
Patrick Hume, a father of six who worked as a psychiatric nurse before serving on the Board of Governors at St Cecilia's College for over 20 years, passed away on Sunday.
His son, Paul, read out the words of his "brilliant uncle" John Hume to the congregation at St Columba's Church, Longtower in Derry on Wednesday morning.
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"In trying to gather a few words together after Daddy died on Sunday, my daughter came into the room and handed me a sheet of paper," he said
"It was an interview that our uncle John had given in 2006 about what Dad was like as a brother. So this is our brilliant Daddy through the eyes of our brilliant uncle."
Quoting the late Foyle MP, he continued: "My parents had a lot of compassion and empathy for people and the same is true of our Patsy. Sensitivity and care for people is what defines our Patsy.
"Patsy worked with a great deal of people who were broken or struggling with life, whether it be through addiction, mental illness or loss of a loved one. Patsy was never one to judge.
"In my life as a politican there have been many stresses and strains and this has taken a toll on my health. Throughout it all, Patsy supported me and was always there when I needed him."
Parish priest Fr Gerard Mongan, meanwhile, spoke of his kindness in a touching homily.
"Kindness and loyalty never left him, he wore them around his neck," Fr Mongan said. "He was so well-known he needed three names - Patsy, Paddy and Pat - but the name he loved the most was Granda.
"First and foremost Patsy was a family man, a fantastic brother to his sisters and brothers. He was the glue that held you all together. He was an amazing Daddy. Of course, as we all know, the love of his life was Bridget. They idolised each other.
"He was the life and soul of any party. He never had to be asked twice to sing or tell jokes. Even though he didn't take a drink he was the last to leave."
Patrick Hume was also described as a "longstanding member and key player in the development of the Corseo community in Derry and Donegal", who "went to Lourdes for over 40 years as a nurse and later organising pilgrimages."
He added: "I was told at the wake if you want to look up the word 'kindness' in the dictionary, there was no need, because you could just look at Paddy.
"He loved helping others."
Following Requiem Mass at the Longtower Church, his remains were taken to the city cemetery for interment.
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