In a statement, the family of Mr Brannigan said he was known among his neighbours and friends as someone who was always willing to help out and “ready to do whatever needed to be done for the good of others”.
The day before he died, he was tending to friends’ graves while visiting the grave of his late wife, Dorenda, “as he did, almost every day”.
Mr Brannigan is remembered as a “dearly beloved” husband, a “much loved” father of two daughters and a “loving grandfather” of six in his death notice.
He “faced many difficult issues in his life”, according to his family.
“We know his life was not perfect, but for us, he was our dad, our granddad, our son and our brother.
“His rock through all of this was Dorenda. We pray they will be reunited now in perfect peace and love.”
The family also thanked “those who have surrounded us with such love and care” since Mr Brannigan’s death.
They said the public’s outreach “reflects the very special people who make up the Marian Park and wider Downpatrick community”.