A well-known community advocate, and former mayor of Upper Island Cove, Philip Lundrigan, has passed away.

Lundrigan passed away on Saturday, according to a Facebook post by his brother, Robert.

Lundrigan returned to his hometown in the mid-1990s after he was given two years to live following an HIV diagnosis.

The man would end up defying the odds, living in this province for the last 28 years.

During that time he became an advocate for people living with HIV, a part of the animal welfare group Voice for the Voiceless, and the Coalition for Persons with Disabilities.

As well, he spent time as a councilor, Deputy Mayor, and finally Mayor of Upper Island Cove.

Lundrigan’s brother writes fondly of his brother, noting that “he had a big heart and used it to help all of us.”