The passing of Sir Des Rea, a notable campaigner from Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) in the early 1960s, has been announced by Erskine Holmes. Sir Des Rea was also recognized for his active involvement in the Labour Group and as a supporter of the Co-operative Movement. His contributions extended to being a Methodist peace campaigner during the early 1980s, where he was described as an influential figure in peace advocacy. Holmes recently had the opportunity to meet Sir Des Rea at the launch event for “Methodism & Peacemaking,” an occasion that highlighted Rea’s enduring commitment to peace.
The announcement serves as a poignant reminder of a generation of activists and campaigners who emerged from QUB during that formative period. The early 1960s were a time of significant social and political change, and individuals like Sir Des Rea played a role in shaping public discourse and driving movements for social justice and peace. His affiliation with the Labour Group suggests a dedication to addressing socio-economic inequalities and advocating for workers’ rights, a common thread among many student activists of that era. Furthermore, his support for the Co-operative Movement points to an interest in alternative economic models that prioritized community and ethical practices over pure profit.
The description of Sir Des Rea as a “Methodist peace campaigner” in the early 1980s underscores a specific period of intense focus on peace initiatives, likely in response to global conflicts and tensions of that time. The Methodist Church has a long history of social activism and engagement with issues of peace and justice, and Rea’s involvement within this framework highlights his consistent dedication to these principles. Being described as an “influential peace” figure suggests that his actions, words, or organizational efforts had a tangible impact on promoting understanding, reconciliation, or conflict resolution.
The fact that Erskine Holmes met him just last week at the launch of “Methodism & Peacemaking” provides a recent and personal touch to the announcement. This suggests that Sir Des Rea remained actively engaged with causes close to his heart until very near the end of his life. The launch of a publication or initiative focused on “Methodism & Peacemaking” would naturally attract individuals with a deep interest in the intersection of faith and peace advocacy, and Sir Des Rea’s presence indicates his continued relevance and influence in these circles.
While the provided text is brief, it paints a picture of a multifaceted individual who dedicated a significant portion of his life to public service, activism, and the pursuit of peace. His passing marks the loss of a campaigner, a supporter of cooperative ideals, and an influential voice for peace within the Methodist community. The memory of his contributions is being preserved and shared by those who knew him and were inspired by his work. The news is delivered by Erskine Holmes.
Source: Erskine Holmes
Erskine Holmes: RIP Sir Des Rea, another passing of the campaigners from QUB of early 1960s. Member Labour Group & supporter Co-operative Movement. Methodist peace campaigner early 1980s, an influential peace glad to meet him last week at launch of Methodism & Peacemaking. #breaking
— @Sherlocker2 May 1, 2026
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