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Tributes have been paid to journalist Jackie McKeown who died suddenly at her home in Newry on Friday. Jackie was best known locally when she worked with the Newry Democrat, taking up the post of editor in 2006. As well as the Democrat she worked for many other publications as journalist, news editor, sub editor as well as investigative journalist. These included the Croydon Advertiser, Evening Standard, Ulster Star, Cross Examiner, Newsletter, Sunday Life, Belfast Telegraph, Irish Independent, Irish Daily Star, Irish Daily Mail and Daily Mirror. Highly respected as a journalist at the very top of her game, many who paid tribute remarked that she was a great colleague, hugely talented and a true friend.
Newry City Councillor Michael Savage worked with Jackie at both the Newry Democrat and The Cross Examiner Cllr Savage said "So sorry to hear of Jackie's untimely passing. She worked with me in the Examiner and Democrat and was an excellent journalist and a lovely person. My deepest condolences to her daughter and wider family at this very sad time. May she Rest In Peace."
Friend and journalist Carmel Robinson said "What a force of nature and such a kind beautiful woman with a heart of gold. An extremely talented journalist Jackie certainly made her mark during her 30 plus years as a journalist, news editor, sub editor, investigative journalist and huge support to many of her colleagues with her vast experience of life. It is impossible to sum up Jackie. She wore her heart on her sleeve and despite some terrible upheavals throughout her life, she always thought of others. A truly kind and compassionate woman and I will miss her."
Former MLA Danny Kennedy also said "Very sorry to learn of the untimely passing of Jackie who was a highly professional and hugely respected journalist. Always fair and thorough. Sincere sympathy to Jackie’s family, friends and many colleagues. May they all know God’s comfort and blessing at this sad time."
Funeral arrangements have still to be decided. Jackie is survived by daughter Ciara, mother Rosa van Wijk and sister Tara McKeown and mourned by brother-in-law Philip O’Neill and nephews Oisin and Tiarnan McKeown-O’Neill, stepfathers Willem Nouwen, and Frits Lap; and her family in Banbridge, Cork, Waterford, and the Netherlands.
Highly regarded as a journalist, news editor, sub editor and investigative journalist at (amongst others) the Croydon Advertiser, Evening Standard, Crossmaglen Examiner, Belfast Telegraph, Irish Independent, Irish Daily Star, Irish Daily Mail, and The Mirror; her untimely passing will be mourned by her many friends and colleagues across Belfast, Dublin, London, and beyond.
