O'Shea, Jackie
April 20, 2011The unexpected death on Wednesday April 20 of Jackie O'Shea, Donoughmore, generated an unprecedented outpouring of sorrow locally and far beyond.
The swift manner of his departure was received with traumatic reaction from people who simply could not believe we were being deprived of the company and service of one of the most revered and remarkable man that was ever produced from the parish.
Since his death many eulogies have already highlighted his many attributes and qualities describing Jackie as genuine, humble, genteel, light hearted, mentor, stawlart, organiser, committed, advisor, appreciative, understanding, tolerant, the list goes on.
The sheer scale of his personality, his zest for life, his grasp of the many whims of human nature and the sensitive and considerate manner he applied to them, endeared him to a vast audience, the multitude that paid their respects over four and a half days was a testimony to that.
Well known throughout his beloved Muskerry, Cork City and county, and by diaspora throughout the world, he had the unique characteristic of being universally loved and respected and it is true to say from talking to many people of diverse opinion no one had a harsh word to say about him. And, surely that is a tremendous accolade for a man that saw good in every person and project whoever or whatever it may have been. Many a person and family benefited from his help, he always showed respect fullness and compassion in difficult times and difficult situations even if it was only a gentle word that invariably put the person's mind at ease.
The interest and love he displayed in the fortunes of his parish and various clubs and organisations he was an integral part of being almost an unofficial secretary, will be his greatest legacy. His enthusiasm and drive and a major factor in the development of the Community Centre and Fr. Condon Memorial field.
When the parish grotto was being built the stone ran short and it was Jackie who collected the pebble stones, when the parish carnival was inaugurated he was to the fore delighting in the joy if brought to many people, and when his second home was being developed at the new GAA complex in Lackabawn his enthusiasm instilled a tremendous response.
People of the generation who were privileged to have witnesses the annual Donoughmore Sports day will recall happy memories of Jackie's immense input and his delight in welcoming such renowned and illustrious athletes who later became friends of his.
Above all, his special affinity with his beloved GAA Club was legendary. From his early days as a minor in 1942 he was acknowledged far and wide and courage. Such potential saw him play up to 20 years for his club and his talents was recognised by the Muskerry senior hurlers to whom he gave many great performances.
He continued to immerse himself in the administration end of the club when he retired acting as secretary, PRO and committee member. Last November he attended his 72nd AGM.
The O'Shea family home always had the door literally open and you were welcomed with open arms. He delighted in his family and was always conscious of the importance of family occasions even if the significant match he longed to go to clashed, it was the family gathering that took precedence.
How touching it was that Fr. Liam Kelleher, speaking on behalf of the family, mentioned that Jackie had his first date with his future wife Mamie on Easter Sunday 63 years ago. He will be sadly missed by Mamie, his devoted wife, Mary, his sister, daughters Norma and Maria, sons Taghg, Dan, Sean and Pat, his beloved grandchildren and relatives.
Farewell, old friend, adieu, may the soil of your native land rest gently on you- and how could we forget- the parting shot. God bless you. Goodbye.
Signed - "A friend"
Courtesy of The Corkman
20th April 2011 Tweet
