Tributes to former Mayo County Library staff member on his passing

The death has taken place of Jerry King, Knockshanvalley, Straide, Foxford.

A former member of the staff of Mayo County Library, he died peacefully at his residence.

Predeceased by his brother Pat, he is deeply regretted by his wife Majella, sons John and Philip, sister Mary (Sr. Marian) and brother John, sisters-in-law Mary and Bríd, brothers-in-law Michael and Richard, nephew Michéal, niece Michelle, cousins, extended family, neighbours and friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.

Paying tribute to him, Austin Vaughan, county librarian, said his passing is widely mourned by his friends at Mayo County Council where he was held in such high regard.

"He was a wonderful personality who had an immense passion for so many aspects of life and he will be sadly missed by everybody who knew and loved him."

The deceased was a former national president of the trade union, IMPACT, and gave distinguished service to the organisation.

He was a member of Castlebar Golf Club and Castlebar Tennis Club for many years.

Many warm tributes have been paid to him on the condolences page of the death notices website, RIP.ie.

A colleague at Mayo Library Services, Alan King, said Jerry was a legendary figure in the library service.

"He was good humoured, fun and a great person to turn to for advice on any matter.

"His innovations and ideas transformed the library, which is a much quieter place with his passing. He will be missed by all. Sympathy to Majella, John and Philip and to all his friends and relations."

Siobhán Ní Ghríofa said Jerry was an exceptional person, so full of energy, enthusiasm and dedicated to working for the benefit of others.

"It was an honour and a privilege to work alongside him during his term as president of IMPACT. Suaimhneas síoraí dó."

Kevin Callinan, General Secretary, Fórsa, said there is a cloud over the Fórsa offices "as we mourn the loss of Jerry, a former union president and a man of deep commitment and high principle."

His remains will be reposing at Coady’s Funeral Home on Friday evening at 5.30 p.m. with removal at 7.00pm to his residence via Castlebar Library.

Removal from his residence on Saturday morning at 12.00 noon for Cremation Ceremony at 2.30pm, in Shannon Crematorium.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.