There was deep sadness as the news spread of the untimely and unexpected passing of John Joe Kearney of Rooaunmore. John Joe was well known and hugely popular with many and his unexpected passing came as a great shock to many.
John Joe grew up in the nearby hinterland of Lackagh and after attending Lackagh National School went on to attend St. Mary’s College in Galway at a time when few attended secondary school.
John Joe left St. Mary’s to take up employment in Frank McDonagh’s Drapery Shop in Wlliamsgate Street. Later John Joe would move to Coca Cola where he gave a lifetime of service to the Coca Cola plant in Tuam. John Joe retired some years ago when he had some health issues but enjoyed his retirement.
The untimely passing of his wife Angela while the couple were on holidays in Australia came as a major blow, but, John Joe continued on in a positive manner. John Joe was a great follower of Gaelic games and in particular Turloughmore hurling.
He proudly watched Turloughmore Under 14 team capture the All Ireland Feile na nGael title where his son Declan was team manager, his other son Gerry was Coach and his grandson Owen was on the team.
John Joe loved the social outing and kept in touch with many friends over the years. His untimely and unexpected passing came as a great shock to the entire community.
The remains of John Joe Kearney were removed from Síoraíocht to the Church of the Assumption and St. James, Claregalway. Following his funeral Mass celebrated by Fr. Eamon Finnegan SMA, who was joined by Fr. Billy Collins and Fr. Joe O’Brien, PP Abbeyknockmoy, burial took place in Lackagh Cemetery.
John Joe is survived by his family Gerry, Declan, Deirdre, Linda and Emer, daughters-in-law, Maureen and Regina, sons-in-law John, Paul and Gerry, grandchildren Adam, Owen, Ava, Aoife, Rory, Conor and Rose, brothers Tom, Martin, Jimmy and Richard, in-laws, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
