Mr Leckey, who retired in October 2015 after more than three decades overseeing inquests, passed away yesterday, according to the Law Society of Northern Ireland.

He was admitted to the roll of solicitors in 1974, becoming a deputy coroner in 1988 and a coroner in 1992. He later went on to hold the office of senior coroner until his retirement.

A spokesperson for the Office of the Lord Chief Justice said: “John presided over a significant number of complex and contentious inquests during his time in office including the inquest into the Omagh bombing. His courteous manner was respected by families and those who appeared before him.

“John’s book on Coroners’ Law and Practice in Northern Ireland was a much respected and valuable source for coroners and practitioners alike.

“He will be missed by his colleagues in the Judiciary and those who worked closely with him over the years in the Coroners Service. I would like to extend our sympathy to his wife Janet and his sons Peter and Simon.”