Josie Livingstone

As briefly reported the death took place at his residence Turlough Road, Castlebar on January 23rd of Joseph (Josie) Livingstone. His passing after a short illness removed from the town one of its best known personalities.
Only child of Anthony and Mary Ann Livingstone he was born in Castle Street in 1922, the family moving soon after to Newantrim Street.
After leaving school he emigrated to England working in the coalmines in Yorkshire for a time. Returning to Castlebar he was apprenticed to Tony Brett, the renowned painter and decorator.
In 1949 he set up business on his own. His expertise and workmanship soon won for him many contracts especially with the Board of Works and Texaco Oil Company and in later years with Baxter Healthcare. During the winter periods Josie sought work far from home. He retired in 1988 with his son Pat continuing the proud family decorating and painting tradition.

Possessing a marvellous memory, recalling many of the events and characters of his younger days, he regaled many a gathering with his storytelling.
Josie had a passionate interest in politics being a stalwart member of the local Fianna Fail Cumann. He was also a great supporter of Castlebar Celtic and was a regular at games for many years.
In 1951 he married Mary Foy from McHale Road and they reared a family of four girls and two boys.
After reposing at the family home and later at the Thomas Street Funeral Home Josie's remains were removed to the Church of the Holy Rosary accompanied by a guard of honour of members of Fianna Fail and Castlebar Celtic. A.F.C., the coffin draped with flags of both organisations.
Following Concelebrated Requiem Mass, Fr. Michael Farragher being chief celebrant assisted by Fr. John McCormack (Breaffy) and Fr. Declan Carroll (Burrishoole) he was laid to rest beside his parents in the Old Cemetery, the church choir singing his favourite hymn--Abide with Me--as the remains left the church on its final journey.
Readings at the Mass were by Josie's grandchildren Nikki and Emma. Prayers of the Faithful by Joseph, Patrick, Emer and Patrick (USA). The Gifts were brought to the altar by Mariannne and Regina.
His son Pat paid a touching tribute to a loving husband and father at the conclusion of the Mass.
Josie is survived by his wife Mary, daughters, Marianne (London), Margot Slattery (Dublin), Emer Traynor (New York), Regina (Castlebar); sons, Joseph (New Jersey) and Patrick (Breaffy), daughters-in-law, sons-in law, eleven grandchildren, relatives and many friends to whom deepest sympathy is tendered.
May the sod of the town he loved so well rest lightly on him and may his soul rest in peace.