The Late Jack Barrett The Bagenalstown community was deeply saddened by the passing of Mr Jack Barrett, Oak Grove, Bagenalstown, who died peacefully at his home on December 22 after a short illness. He was 72 years of age. A native of Knock, Kilrush, Co. Clare, Jack joined the police force as a young man and after "passing out" he spent a year in Dublin and was then transferred to Bagenalstown. His next assignment was in the village of Ballitore, Co. Kildare where he met his wife Aine who was teaching in the local national school. After a short spell in Borris Jack returned to Bagenalstown at the end of 1957 and worked here until his retirement after 30 years service. In addition to his "on the beat" duties Jack was the office administrator in the barracks and was very efficient in the performance of his duties. He was very popular, both in the force and in the community, and was known for his integrity, his conscientious attention to his duties and obliging manner. A witty and charismatic man, Jack had a great sense of humour and a kind word for everybody. Local man Michael Jones, who was recently the recipient of the Town Council Cathaoirleach's award for his work in the community remembers that Jack played with St Andrew's GAA club for six years in the 50s and won a medal when the club won the League Final in 1955. Michael recalls: "Jack played at corner back and was as solid as a rock, with guts to burn." Jack enjoyed his favourite hobby, gardening, up to a few weeks before his death and he also enjoyed going to Lawlor's to meet his friends for a pint and a chat. His remains were received at St. Andrew's Parish Church by Fr Tom Bambrick, C.C. Bagenalstown. His funeral mass was celebrated by Fr Fabian O.D.C. (brother-in-law), assisted by Fr Pierce Murphy, P.P. Bagenalstown, Fr Jerry Byrne P.P. Graiguenamanagh and Fr. Jimmy Doyle, Naas. His coffin was draped in the Tricolour and members of the Garda Siochana paid a fitting tribute to Jack when they acted as pall bearers and formed a guard of honour. He was buried in the Cemetery of the Assumption. Large crowds turned out to attend his funeral to pay their respects to a man whom they admired and respected. Jack is mourned by his wife, Aine, brothers Michael and Tom (Limerick) sister Mrs Mary Kelleher (Knock, Kilrush), sisters-in-law Breda and Bridie; brother-in-law, Fr Fabian O.D.C., nephews, nieces, cousins, and a large circle of friends. May he rest in peace. Courtesy of the Nationalist 11th February 2005 Tweet

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