A MART manager who "always put farmers first" will be laid to rest in his hometown of Blacklion today (Thursday).

The late Ivan Moffitt was highly-regarded in the farming community for his role as the manager of Manorhamilton Livestock Sales.

The 59-year-old passed away on Sunday and will be laid to rest at Blacklion Methodist Church today at 12pm.

His family released a statement via social media, saying that he will be "forever missed".

It read: "We, the Moffitt Family, deeply regret to inform you of the sudden death of Ivan, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend to all. He will be forever missed at Manorhamilton Mart and in the farming community.

"May he rest in peace."

Manorhamilton Mart will be closed "until further notice".

Tributes from across the community have been paid to the late Mr. Moffitt.

Liam Gilligan, Chair of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) in Co. Leitrim, said: “He was a strong community man and businessman, always striving to put farmers first.

"He will be sorely missed in the farming and wider community from north Leitrim, west Cavan, and beyond."

Tributes have also come from customers at Manorhamilton Mart. Paying tribute on social media, Dessie Kerrigan described Mr. Moffitt as a "true gentleman".

"A true gentleman Mr. Moffitt was; he will never be forgotten," said Mr. Kerrigan. "I was only talking to him at the ram sale in Manorhamilton last Thursday.

"He always had a big hello for you, made you feel welcome, and would always ask me first thing, 'How is your father, Dessie?'

"Even when I was selling stock in the box, he would ask, 'How is your father, Dessie?' There will never be another Ivan.

"He will be thoroughly missed always, not just by his family, but by all his numerous friends and the entire farming community, and all who were privileged to have met and known him.

"If there are any marts up in heaven, they just got the best auctioneer they could ask for."

Meanwhile, Shannon Gaels GAC, based in Blacklion, also remembered Mr. Moffitt as a "true gentleman" and extended sympathies to his wife, children, and family circle, some of whom are club members.

Glenfarne Kiltyclogher GAA also expressed their condolences.

"We wish to express sincere condolences to the Moffitt and McManus families on the sudden passing of Ivan."

Mr. Moffitt is survived by his wife, Sarah; children, Alanna, Harry, Ava and Jack; and a wide circle of extended family, work colleagues, friends, and neighbours.