A Councillor since 2010 – when she took over from her husband, well-known Councillor Frank McQuaid – Sheila McQuaid was a well-respected and highly valued member of the Alliance Party’s local government team.
David Ford MLA said: “Sheila proved herself as an active and hard-working Councillor since taking over Frank’s seat in 2010. She was truly committed to the local community in Banbridge, never losing sight of her desire to promote wider reconciliation in our society and to deliver a shared future for everyone.
“Sheila was well-known in her local community and beyond, always thinking of others as seen by the amount of time dedicated to a range of charity organisations.
“On behalf of the Alliance Party I want to express my condolences to Frank and the wider family circle as they come to terms with their loss. Sheila will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her.”