North West Migrants Forum pay tribute to long-time supporter in heartfelt tribute

Tributes have been paid to Derry man Daniel (Danny) McQuilkin who passed away on Wednesday, August 13, in the Foyle Hospice surrounded by his loving family.

A death notice states that Danny was the 'devoted husband of the late Anna, beloved father of Colm (Shauna), Janice, Lisa (Vincent), David (Pauline), Gerald and Annalouise. Cherished grandfather of Dannielle, Phillippa, Callum, Conor, Catherine, Elizabeth and great-grandfather of Lila and Hunter'.

He was also 'son of the late Hugh and Elizabeth McQuilkin (Cooke Street); dear brother of Agatha, May, Hugh, and the late Jackie, Paddy, Betty, Sally and Colm'.

The father of six has been described by North West Migrants Forum as 'a man of immense integrity' and 'a pillar of our community' and praised his contributions over the years.

“The North West Migrants Forum is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our dear friend and long-time supporter, Danny McQuilkin.

“Danny was more than a volunteer; he was a pillar of our community and a true ally of the North West Migrants Forum.

“For many years Danny was a constant presence at our fun days, workshops, training sessions and countless other events. He generously gave his time, energy and unwavering support to everything we did.

“But Danny’s contributions went far beyond volunteering. He built genuine connections with our service users and offered them meaningful support as they navigated life in a new country.

Danny in discussion with some North West Migrant Forum members.

“Whether it was helping someone integrate into their local community or quietly stepping in with financial support for those facing hardship, Danny always did so with compassion and humility.

“He gave from the heart, often at personal cost, and never sought recognition. In 2016, when hundreds of Syrians arrived in the North West after fleeing war, Danny was one of the first to welcome them. With an open hand and a kind heart, he quickly helped build a plan to support their resettlement  ensuring they felt safe, seen and supported.

“Danny was a man of immense integrity, guided by a deep sense of justice and humanity. He had a unique ability to see people not as labels, not as ‘migrants’ or ‘foreigners’ but as fellow human beings. As they say in Derry, Danny ‘knew the craic’. He brought warmth, humour and authenticity to every encounter.

“We are immensely grateful for Danny’s contributions and we know that without his support, the North West Migrants Forum would not be where it is today. His generosity, kindness and moral clarity will be remembered always.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his children, Colm, Janice, Lisa, David, Gerald, and Annalouise and to his wider family circle.

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“A generous man with a clean heart, we will miss Danny dearly.”

Danny’s remains are reposing in his home, 7 Belfield Park, Foyle Springs.

His funeral will take place tomorrow (Saturday, August 16) at 9.20am for 10o’clock Requiem Mass in St Columba’s Church, Longtower. Interment afterwards in the City Cemetery.