Death of former Mayo County Council cathaoirleach

THE death has taken place of John Martin Flannery, Barrack Street, Charlestown.

The deceased was a Fine Gael member of Mayo County Council from 1979 to 2004 and served as cathaoirleach for one term in the late 1990s.

He was a member for the former Western Health Board for many years and ran as a Fine Gael general election candidate in the former Mayo East constituency in 1982.

Because of his tremendous humour and wit at times, he could defuse a tense debate at a county council meeting with a funny comment.

He got on well with officials of the authority and achieved a great deal for his own area during his 25-year career in public life.

Paying tribute to him this evening, Charlestown Councillor Gerry Murray said he enjoyed a great working relationship with John over the years.

He stated: “It’s a sad day for Charlestown and east Mayo in general. He contributed hugely to the area and was always campaigning for the betterment of the locality.

'He will be remembered as one of the great characters of Mayo County Council and, most of all, he was a great family man.' 

His remains will be reposing at the Horkan Funeral Home, Charlestown, on Saturday evening from 4 until 6.30 p.m. with removal to St. James Church, Charlestown, arriving at 7.00pm.

Requiem Mass for the repose of his soul takes place on Sunday at 1 p.m. followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Deepest sympathy is extended to his daughters Cora, Patricia, Karen and Jean, brother, sister, sons-in-law, grandchildren, extended family, relatives and friends on their loss. He was predeceased by his wife, Margaret, a number of years ago.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.