The sudden death at the age of 60 of Sinn Féin Monaghan Town Councillor Gerry Loughran on 2 November was a grievous loss to his family and deprived Counties Monaghan and Tyrone, and Ireland, of one of the most popular and dedicated of republicans. The widespread respect he earned was seen when the town of Monaghan came to standstill last Friday. Council offices, shops and businesses closed as Gerry made his final journey through the streets of his adopted home. Free article