McKenna, Barney
October 31, 2004
The late Barney McKenna
The sudden death of Mr Bernard McKenna from Armagh city whilst attending Mass in Greenpark CBS on Sunday morning has shocked the entire community. Known as Barney to all and sundry he was Armagh to the core, a member of a very old Irish Street family. His home was in Dobbin Street.
Predeceased by his wife Agnes (nee Gibney) he is survived by his daughters Sharon, Theresa and Mary and sons Brian, Paul and Tony. His sister Mary, who worked for years as a manageress in Woolworths, is the last surviving member of the family.
He was aged 80 and was a retired joiner though his skills were forever called upon to do the odd job for a friend or neighbour. Along with his good friend and work colleague, the late Patsy Devine, he installed many of the shop fronts in the city which continue to bear testimony to his exceptional skills and craftsmanship.
He was also an expert at making hurley sticks. Barney was football mad and a lifelong supporter of the county teams and Armagh Harps.
Unlike many of his close sporting friends over the years he lived to see his life long dream - the Sam Maguire Cup come to Armagh and as an added bonus the U21 All-Ireland captured a few weeks prior to his death.
Barney was noted for his civility and good nature and was a familiar figure around the Dobbin street / Friary Road / Palace Demesne areas walking his little dog. Barney knew everybody and enjoyed reminiscing about old times.
He had an outstanding memory and knew the history of Armagh city inside out. He was a character. His largely attended funeral took place from his late residence to St. Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh where Requiem Mass was celebrated. Burial followed in St. Patrick's Cemetery. With Barney's unexpected death an era has passed on a well.
Courtesy of the Armagh Observer
October 2004
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