The Late Jimmy McAneney A remarkable Armagh pensioner who had become a legend in his own lifetime died aged 80. Mr James McAneney of Drumarg Park, Armagh had worked in the bar trade for 51 years, mostly in a part time capacity. The bar at The Shambles in Armagh was once owned by his uncle Jimmy McAneney and is presently known as " The Station'. When Jimmy retired from work in the building industry in the 1980s he became bar manager and despite indifferent health in recent years continued working right up until his death. He became known to generations of customers as the friendly barman with an amazing memory, especially relating to local history and sporting events. He often recalled starting bottling Guinness for his uncle at night and at weekends back in the 1950s. It was his introduction to a trade that was forever to remain close to his heart. By day Jimmy worked in the building industry, tending bricklayers. He was highly skilled at his job and his services were widely sought. He worked at the building of many housing estates in the city and surrounding towns. It was invariably home for tea, a quick wash and change and down the town to work in the bar. Born in 1925, Jimmy was the eldest of five children, two boys and three girls - born to Kitty and Tommy McAneney, of Irish Street. He was married in September 1957 to local girl Betty Campbell, better known to Jimmy as 'Miss World'. The couple were blessed with five children, three boys and two girls. In the latter years of his long and meaningful life he derived immense pleasure and companionship for his 12 grandchildren whom he loved dearly. Seldom was he seen on the town without a few of them. There was hardly a spot in Ireland he hadn't been to, yet it is somewhat remarkable that he didn't drive. It certainly didn't hinder or curtail him getting around. So popular was Jimmy behind the counter, that when the pub changed ownership from time to time he was always asked to remain on. Jimmy McAneney was a man that could be trusted and counted on by proprietor and customer alike. The bar was his home from home, the customers his extended family. His inimitable wit, pleasant and jocular manner and rare oul sayings singled him out as an exceptional bartender. He was a tonic to wipe away the blues and was always the same hale and hearty gentleman. He had an outstanding memory for names and faces. On his 80th birthday in January, staff and customers at The Station Bar, held a surprise party in his honour. He was the life and soul of any party and it was certainly no different on this very special occasion. Working in the bar trade suited Jimmy down to the ground. Over the years he had perfected the art of conversation and being something of a local historian and sporting enthusiast he revelled in the atmosphere of good debate and discussion. Jimmy was an ardent follower of Road Bowls in Armagh and was prolifically involved in the sport during the magnificent career of his close friend and associate Red Joe McVeigh. Both came from the 'upper end' growing up as friends and neighbours in Irish Street. Jimmy was a member of Red Joe's Supporters Club and travelled the length and breadth of Ireland during the period when his idol was King of the Road. From the early 50s Jimmy was also a faithful supporter of Armagh Harps, travelling to all their matches along with the team in the famous old Harps bus. His brother-in-law Pat (The Gummer) Campbell was a member of the outstanding Harps team and also played for Armagh in the 1953 All-Ireland Final against Kerry. Jimmy was also proud of the fact that the famous Pat Campbell (RIP) was family. That unbreakable McAneney tradition with Armagh Harps formed over half a century ago remains in tact today as Jimmy's grandchildren play for the club. Jimmy like many thousands of Armagh fans encountered disappointment in 1953 and again in 1977 when his beloved Orchard County lost All-Irelands. But unlike several of his old pals and compatriots, he lived to see the dream finally come through and on September 22, 2002 when the final whistle sounded in Croke Park and Armagh had gained revenge for that 1953 defeat by The Kingdom, Jimmy McAneney unashamedly wept with tears of joy and contentment. Jimmy was so well conversed in his knowledge of road bowls, football and sport in general that he was often consulted by many seeking answers to related matters. Indeed many a heated debate and argument was settled on Jimmy McAneney's trusted and upheld word. A shadow of grief has fallen upon the city of Armagh and surrounding areas. The death of Jimmy McAneney has brought to an end a life of service and all that is good and worthy of note. Over the years his name and fame grew. There was a distinctiveness about the man that will live on. His openness of mind and heart will not be easily forgotten. His name will be talked about for many years to come. With his passing, the greatest loss is sustained by his constant companion Betty, who unobtrusively looked after his every need and moulded her life to suit his often unpredictable work rota. His largely attended funeral took place from his late residence to St Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh where Requiem Mass was celebrated by Parish Administrator Very Reverend Padraig Murphy. To his sorrowing wife Betty, and five children, Anthony, Tommy, Ann, Jim and Geraldine, 12 grandchildren, brother, sisters and family circle heartfelt sympathy is extended. May the green sod of Old Armagh rest gently upon him Courtesy of the Armagh Observer 25th February 2005 Tweet

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