DUP MLA for South Belfast Christopher Stalford has died suddenly.
Mr Stalford (39) is survived by his wife Laura and their four children.
He passed away over the weekend.
In a tribute, DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he was not just an elected representative or a colleague, ‘he was a friend’.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of Christopher’s sudden death.
“On behalf of the party, I express my sympathies to Laura and the wider Stalford family on the loss of a husband, father, son and brother.
“I talked at length with Christopher on Friday night. He was passionate about Northern Ireland and wanted the best for his constituents. I was never to know how precious that conversation was to be.
“Most telling of all in that conversation was his pride in Laura and their children. He talked about his eldest child transferring to big school and the discussions that were ongoing in the home.”
Sir Jeffrey Donaldson pays tribute to Christopher Stalford MLA https://t.co/SvGRAsA7Jw via @duponline @J_Donaldson_MP
— DUP (@duponline) February 20, 2022
Desperately sad news of the sudden passing of DUP Assembly member Christopher Stalford. On behalf of the Sinn Féin Assembly team I extend our condolences and I express my sincere sympathy to his wife Laura and their four children who are foremost in our thoughts this afternoon.
— Michelle O’Neill (@moneillsf) February 20, 2022
Words are not adequate to express the shock and deep sadness I feel at the death of Christopher Stalford. To his wife Laura and four young children I express sincere Christian sympathy.I retained friendship and respect for him and his ability ever since he worked for me as an MEP
— Jim Allister (@JimAllister) February 20, 2022
Devastating news about Christopher Stalford my friend & colleague. I always enjoyed & valued our conversations about history & current affairs. Always courteous. My thoughts & prayers go out to his wife Laura & their four little children who he always talked about and doted over.
— Paul Frew (@paulfrewDUP) February 20, 2022