Passing of 'great character' Jim Doherty widely mourned in Mayo

The death has occurred of James Doherty, better known as Jim, Annagh, Islandeady, Castlebar, and formerly of Straide, Foxford.

James passed away peacefully yesterday at Mayo University Hospital, after a long illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was well known and highly respected in Castlebar.

He worked for Chadwick's Builder Providers on Newport Road for many years.

He was also a widely-known and popular taxi operator, who had many loyal customers down the years, and bus driver.

Jim is deeply regretted and sadly missed by his devoted wife Breege (née Tunney), sons James and his wife Edwina, Ronan (New York), Kieran and his partner Theresa, daughters Sharon and her husband Johan Collins, Leona and her partner Ciaran, son- in- law Lee Kingcombe, his adored grandchildren Zara, Zac, Poppy, Leah, Aoibhinn, Ivy-May, Ally and Rian, sister Mary Kelly (Straide) and his brothers Sean (Dublin), Joseph (Ballina), Thomas (Straide), sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and a wide circle of friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.

He was predeceased by his daughter Nicola Kingcombe in January 2020 and his parents Johnny and Katie (née Reddington).

Many warm tributes are being paid to him today on social media.

"Jim was a kind and caring man, he was so good with the children when he drove the school bus for St Anthony's School and Derrywash National School. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by so many," one stated.

"He was such a kind and lovely neighbour," another said.

"I had the pleasure of working with him in Niland's Cash and Carry many moons ago, he was one great character," a further tribute observed.

Jim will repose in St. Aidan’s Room, adjoining St. Patrick’s Church, Islandeady, on Monday from 5.30 p.m.. with prayers at 7 p.m.

The funeral will arrive at Islandeady Church on Tuesday at 10.45 a.m. for Requiem Mass at 11 a.m.

Afterwards Jim will be laid to rest beside his beloved daughter Nicola in Islandeady Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.