Murdered couple buried together in County Armagh

Michael and Marjorie Cawdery, both aged 83, were found dead in their home by relatives in May.

Emotional tributes were paid to the couple in a service in Drumcree Parish Church in their home town on Thursday.

Colin Wilkins, Marjorie’s nephew, delivered her eulogy described his aunt as “kind” and “lovely” with her greatest quality – "loving kindness."

He added: "Marjorie was an incredibly soft-hearted, patient and generous person... a delight to be around.

"She loved life and made everyone around her happy, with her positive sense of fun – and the fact that she was always more interested in other people rather than herself.

"Nobody who knew Marjorie will ever forget how special she was – we will carry memories of her in our hearts forever.”

Meanwhile, Michael's brother Paddy said he had a “bright and inquisitive mind. "

He also paid tribute to his work: "To the end, he was engaged in using his skills to the benefit of others through the medical and veterinary communities in Britain and Ireland.”

Reverend Gary Galway who led the ceremony described the local community's shock at the murder:

"No one can dispute that a horrible act was committed and the family have been devastated by such an act, but they remain resilient and continue to be such a comfort and strength to each other.

"My heart and the heart of this community goes out to the family and I know from speaking to many within our church and in the local community who are in faith, that they continue to uphold the family in their prayers.”

The pensioners were later cremated at Roselawn Crematorium in a strictly private affair.

A 40-year-old man will appear in court again later this month charged with the murders.