Poignant tributes have been paid to popular Buncrana man, John Kelly. Mr Kelly's body was was discovered lying in a laneway behind a row of houses in Knockalla Drive in Buncrana. Originally from Derry, Mr Kelly had been living in Buncrana for more than 25 years and had worked as a caretaker years at St Oran’s National School in Cockhill. He is survived by his wife, Anita, and their son, Sean and daughter, Anna. Hundreds of people took part in a vigil for Mr Kelly at St Oran’s School, on Saturday night. A Book of Condolence was opened in his memory. St Oran's Parents Association posted a glowing tribute to Mr Kelly on social media. It stated: “We are heartbroken as John enriched the lives of all he met. “He cared for our building but more importantly, he cared for each and every one of us, from the youngest child to the oldest adult. May his very gentle soul Rest In Peace." Mr Kelly was described as quite and unassuming man, who had a great sense of community. At the beginning of the pandemic he set up a drive-through donation centre in Buncrana to gather PPE for frontline medical workers. Donegal TD Pádraig Mac Lochlainn said the community of Buncrana is heartbroken at the loss of Mr Kelly. Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Jack Murray said there was sense of shock in Buncrana following the news of Mr Kelly's tragic death. “John was a very popular member of the community,” Cllr Murray said. “The outpouring of grief just shows how highly regarded he was held by everyone. “I'd like to extend my condolences to his family and to the staff and pupils of St Oran's.” Cathaoirleach of the Inishowen Municipal District and family friend, Cllr Nicholas Crossan said Mr Kelly's death was a “major blow”. “It's a sad time for Buncrana,” he said. “I've know John and his wife Anita for many years. It's just terrible. “John was a quiet man and very unassuming but he had a great sense of community and it's a major blow for Buncrana. “He was loved by everybody, especially by the
Poignant tributes paid to popular Buncrana man John Kelly
