IN MEMORY
Sammy Millar remembered for his distinguished career in electrical trade
Reg Farrell.
A well-known figure
in Northern Ireland’s electrical trade, Sammy Millar, passed away on February 12, 2024, at the age of 84. Sammy had retired at the age of 65 after a distinguished career with Walter S Mercer & Son spanning 51 years, picking up many long-service awards from the electrical wholesaler.
RFE founder leaves a legacy of passion, perseverance and dedication
During his working life, he played an active role in the NI branch of the Electrical and Electronics Industries Benevolent Association, attending and promoting many of its fundraising events alongside his wife Margaret. Sammy started out as a message boy, progressed through various warehouse and internal sales roles before becoming an external company sales representative. His time on the road was spent calling with retail shops selling domestic electrical appliances and installation material across Belfast, North Down and South Antrim. With no on-line sales in those days, the role involved a hard slog travelling door to door, meeting customers face to face with order book in hand. Sammy’s order book has been described as a piece of art, with his clear, eloquent handwriting leaving no room for error by an order picker. Former colleague Greg Power said, “His customers came first and if the wrong item was dispatched, a referral to his blue carbon copy meant the internal personnel would surely suffer his wrath.” Among his prestigious customer list were the former McCune Bros in Belfast, Scrabo Electrical in Newtownards and FC McCutcheon in Bangor, as well as many businesses remaining active including Smyth Patterson in Lisburn and Warden Bros in Newtownards. Sammy later progressed to the positions of sales manager and ultimately sales director. He is survived by Margaret, children Beverley and Gary and grandchildren Laura, Sara, Chris and Emily. “Sammy’s order book has been described as a piece of art, with his clear, eloquent handwriting leaving no room for error by an order picker.” Sammy Millar.
Reg Farrell, the esteemed founder of RFE in Dublin, passed away on January 26, 2024, in his 88th year. His demise marks the end of an era for the electrical distribution community in Ireland, as well as for those who knew him personally and professionally. In 1991, Reg Farrell founded RFE, a company that would become synonymous with excellence, innovation and reliability in the electrical industry. Under his visionary leadership, the company flourished, earning a reputation for delivering high-quality products and solutions. Beyond his professional achievements, Reg Farrell will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering integrity. He was not only a respected colleague and mentor but also a beloved friend and family member. His kindness touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Reg Farrell leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence his staff at RFE. While his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on through the countless lives he has touched and the enduring impact of his work ethic. In honouring the memory of Reg Farrell, let us celebrate his remarkable life, his extraordinary contributions to the electrical distribution industry, and the profound legacy he leaves behind. He may have left this world, but his legacy will endure as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and dedication. “Reg Farrell founded RFE, a company that would become synonymous with excellence, innovation and reliability in the electrical industry.”
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 31
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