Tributes have been paid to the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Beth Adger, following her death. It's understood that Mrs Adger had been battling illness for some time but had continued to perform her mayoral duties until very recently. Her death was announced by her family on Wednesday morning.
The DUP veteran had a long and distinguished career in local politics, representing the southern end of Ballymena. Mrs Adger had served as a councillor for the Braid electoral area for ten years and was appointed as Mayor of Mid and East Antrim in June last year. She and her husband Tommy were foster parents to many children over the years and she was a keen advocate for fostering.
Her son, Gordon Adger posted a warm tribute on social media this morning: “It is with great sadness that the Adger family say farewell to the true North star of our lives. Our mother, our mum, Beth Adger moved on to her next adventure and left us with a void that can never be filled.
“A woman overflowing with love, honour and dedication to everyone in her life showed us all what it meant to be loved. We will miss your laughter, your smile, your words of encouragement, your words of wisdom. We'll even miss being told off.
“Mum, we love you, and we always will. Mum, we miss you, and always will. Mum, thank you for being our mum. Sleep well. You deserve your rest.”
Leading tributes was the DUP leader Gavin Robinson who said he was deeply saddened by the news.
“Beth was a tireless worker who served the Braid area and the wider Mid and East Antrim Borough with unwavering commitment. She was a dedicated councillor, a respected public representative, and as both Deputy Mayor and Mayor, she led with distinction.
“Beyond politics, Beth’s life was one of service - both to her community and to those in need. As a foster parent, she exemplified kindness and compassion, always putting others before herself. This is a deeply sad time for Beth’s family, and they are in our thoughts and prayers.”
Also paying tribute was the DUP MLA for East Antrim and Stormont's Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons, who said: "Beth was an amazing person who dedicated her life to public service and helping others, including the many children she fostered.
"Beth cared deeply about her community and despite her illness in recent months, she continued to carry out her duties as Mayor with distinction. Please keep Beth’s family in your thoughts and prayers at this sad time."
The party's East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson added: "I would like to express my condolences to the family of Beth Adger MBE, a long serving, loyal, dedicated member of the DUP who represented the party on the old Ballymena Council and current Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
"Beth's electoral success was an indication of the loyalty her constituents held for her hard work. Both as Deputy Mayor and Mayor, she gave total dedication to the post which she clearly loved and was proud to serve in. She will be dearly missed by her party colleagues."
DUP Councillor Peter Johnston said it was tragic news for the area: "Beth was a genuinely inspirational woman who dedicated her life to public service and to her family and the many children she fostered.
"Last month she was ill but still managed to chair a full rates meeting and keep us all in order! My thoughts and prayers will be with her family over the coming days and months."
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