A 'fierce' disability rights advocate from Belfast has been remembered as "exceptional" and "unflinchingly progressive" following his unexpected death.
Seán Fitzsimons' wife Nicole told his followers on social media platform X that he "passed away yesterday, suddenly and unexpectedly" on Thursday in a heartfelt post the "loving and devoted husband, father, son and brother".
SDLP leader Claire Hannah is among those who have paid tribute to the "fierce advocate for disability rights" who "never stopped fighting for the rights of disabled people".
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She said: "Stunned and heartbroken by this news Nicole. Seán was an exceptional person - smart, unflinchingly progressive & so encouraging of others. Deepest sympathy to you, Ollie and your family."
Nicole said her husband, who has worked with a wide range of organisations including Queen's University, Ulster University, the Equality Commission, My Way Access and the Washington Ireland Program "faced many battles in his life, and took them all on with strength and resilience I have never seen before".
She added: "As many of you know and may have worked with Seán, he was intelligent, funny, warm…I could go on. Seán was also a loving and devoted husband, father, son and brother. He loved and was loved by many. As you can imagine, we are all utterly heartbroken. Keep fighting the good fight in Seán’s memory - it’s what he would have wanted."
People from across across Northern Ireland have shared their shock at Seán's death, taking to social media to tribute to the "exceptional" man. Amnesty International's Patrick Corrigan shared his condolences with Seán's family while Mencap NI said: "Sean's work for disability rights will never be forgotten. Thinking of all his family at this very sad time."
Fellow disability rights advocate, Michaela Hollywood, said Seán "shone for disability rights, community and compassion" and vowed to "keep working" for him.
The Washington Ireland Program said: "It is with a heavy heart that we share that one of the Washington Ireland Program's loyal supporters, SeánFitzsimons, has passed away yesterday.
"His passion, enthusiasm and kindness have left a significant impact on the WIP community and we will continue to support his activism for the disabled community through our programs. We send our deepest condolences to his wife Nicole, son Ollie, family and wider circle of friends."
Peter McReynolds from the Alliance Party said: "This is one of those pieces of news you see and make a noise at in surprise. I’m so sorry to see this."
SDLP MLA Cara Hunter posted: "Nicole, I have no words. I am so sorry for your loss. Sean was an incredible advocate. I am thinking & praying for you and your family at this very sad time."
The Cedar Foundation said: "We are shocked and saddened to hear this news. Condolences to you all at this heartbreaking time. Seán’s championing of disability rights will leave a lasting legacy. May he rest in peace."
Throughout his career, Seán's work has "cut across public, private, third sector and political spheres positively challenging barriers at local, national and international levels" while "advancing the non-partisan issue of disability equality through meaningful, cohesive engagement and participation worldwide".
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