RIP: Great character at centre of Mayo community widely mourned

JIMMY Walsh, Lower Mace, Barnacarroll, and Ardkill, Kilmaine, who died peacefully in the wonderful care of the Mayo Hospice on September 2, was known throughout the Barnacarroll, Mace, Cloontmore, and Murneen areas over the years.

He enjoyed special status around the Mace and Barnacarroll area where his home was the focal point for regular gatherings of neighbours who came together to share memories and relate stories from over the years. There was a welcome for every- one in Jimmy’s home.

Jimmy spent a good many years as an employee at Gilmartin's Bottling Plant in Thomas Street in Kiltimagh where he made many friends.

He retained a special fondness for Kiltimagh and its people all down the years.

He was an ardent listener to Midwest Radio and got much enjoyment from listening to the songs and music and banter that always kept him in touch with the regional community.

Among the tributes to Jimmy was one from his former neighbour, Margaret Brannigan (nee O’Malley), Mace and London, who commented: “I have so many great memories of the family, the fun, the laughter and the stories that will never be forgotten.

“Jimmy was a great character and will be missed by many. It is the end of an era.”

Reposing was at Donnellan's Funeral Home, Claremorris, with removal to his niece Marian's residence at Ardkill, Kilmaine. Following the funeral Mass celebrated by Fr Peter Gannon, PP, in Barnacarroll Church the next day, interment took place in the adjoining cemetery.

Jimmy, who was predeceased by his brother Austin and his sister Kate Kelly (Ardkill) and brother-in-law Peter Kelly, will be sadly missed by his nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-grand- nieces and nephews, relatives and friends.