Tributes to Mayo music teacher and historian John 'Twin' McNamara

Tributes are being paid to John 'Twin' McNamara, Keelwest, Dooagh, Achill – beloved teacher, historian, and lifelong champion of Irish language and culture - whose death has taken place.

A former National School teacher in Dooagh N.S., John, in his 91st year, was widely respected for his dedication to education and his tireless work preserving Achill’s heritage.

In the 1960s, he was a committed civil rights activist, standing up for Achill people forced to travel to England for seasonal work.

He was also one of the founding figures behind the revival of Scoil Acla, helping to restore it as a cornerstone of traditional music, language and the arts on Achill Island.

Born in Dooagh, Achill Island, in 1935, John devoted his life to the preservation and celebration of the island’s cultural heritage.

His deep love for the Irish language, traditional music, song, folklore, and local history was matched only by his generosity in sharing this knowledge with others.

As a composer, musician, singer, and Irish speaker, John influenced generations of traditional artists, collectors, historians, and cultural custodians.

His work helped preserve invaluable aspects of Mayo’s cultural identity, ensuring that the traditions of his beloved island would not only endure, but flourish.

A tribute on the What's On In Achill Facebook page said: "John will be fondly remembered as a proud Achill man, a storyteller, a cultural leader, and a friend to all who shared his love for the island and its people.

"He is deeply mourned by his family, friends, former pupils, and the entire Achill community."

A tribute on the Music of Mayo Facebook page stated: "John’s legacy is reflected not only in his extraordinary contribution to the arts, but in the warmth, kindness, and humanity he extended to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

"His life’s work will continue to shape the social and cultural landscape of Achill and the wider county of Mayo for generations to come.

"His example will remain a guiding light in how we cherish our language, our music, and our shared heritage.

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal. Ba laoch é dár dteanga agus dár gcultúr. Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís."

A tribute on the Dooagh Day Facebook page said: "It is with profound sorrow that we write these words.

"The only certainty in life is that it must one day end, some leave us too soon, others after a long and full journey, but that knowledge never softens the pain of loss.

"There are not enough words to truly capture the life of John “Twin” McNamara, or the depth of his contribution to Dooagh, Achill, Mayo, Ireland, and indeed, the wider world.

"John’s unwavering commitment to traditional Irish music, the Irish language, and the rich folklore and local words of Achill has left an indelible mark on the cultural life of the island. His influence reached far beyond his home, touching countless lives.

"Through his decades of teaching at Dooagh National School, John shaped the minds and hearts of generations. Even into his 90th year, he continued to teach and share his knowledge with anyone willing to listen, a true testament to his passion, generosity, and lifelong love of learning.

"He will be remembered not only for his remarkable contributions but for his warmth, his humor, and his endless dedication to the traditions that make Achill what it is today.

"It is with profound sorrow that we write these words. The only certainty in life is that it must one day end, some leave us too soon, others after a long and full journey, but that knowledge never softens the pain of loss.

"There are not enough words to truly capture the life of John “Twin” McNamara, or the depth of his contribution to Dooagh, Achill, Mayo, Ireland, and indeed, the wider world.

"John’s unwavering commitment to Traditional Irish music, the Irish language, and the rich folklore and local words of Achill has left an indelible mark on the cultural life of the island. His influence reached far beyond his home, touching countless lives.

"Through his decades of teaching at Dooagh National School, John shaped the minds and hearts of generations. Even into his 90th year, he continued to teach and share his knowledge with anyone willing to listen, a true testament to his passion, generosity, and lifelong love of learning.

"He will be remembered not only for his remarkable contributions but for his warmth, his humour and his endless dedication to the traditions that make Achill what it is today."

Predeceased by his beloved son Seán, parents Anthony and Catherine, twin brother Pat and sister Nóra, he will be dearly and lovingly missed by his wife Mary, sons Eoin and Brian, grandchildren Seán, Cathal and Keila, sister Mary Teresa, daughters-in-law Catherine and Claudia, sisters-in-law Teresa, Maura, Mary and Anne, brother-in-law John Stephen, nieces, nephews and all his extended family, neighbours and many good friends, to whom sympathy is extended.

John will repose at Lavelle’s Funeral Home (F28 Y0H9) Cashel, Achill, on Saturday, from 4.30 until 7 p.m.

Removal from his residence Sunday morning to St. Patrick's Church, Pollagh, for Requiem Mass at 11.30 a.m.

Burial takes place afterwards in Slievemore Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.