O'Neill, Joe
October 09, 2013He was pre-deceased in July last year by his wife, Mary (nee Breslin, Aghyaran).
Mr O'Neill was vice-president of Republican Sinn Fein and, at his graveside, his 50 plus years involvement with Irish republicanism was profiled. On its journey to the church, St Joseph's Church, Ballyshannon, the remains were flanked by a 12 strong guard of honour.
The celebrant of the Mass, Canon Ramon Munster, welcomed members of Mr O'Neill's family, his sisters Cait and Ann, and his brother, Owen Roe.
Born to Agnes and Frank O'Neill, who had Pomeroy roots, Joe lived in Ballyshannon as a young boy. He was proficient at hurling and football, and was part of the famous St Joseph's team which won championship honours in the 50s/60s. One of his team-mates was Bishop Liam MacDaid who was among the many callers to his late home.
Canon Munster recalled how Joe and his late wife, Mary ('they were a devoted couple') helped many people in trouble. A member of a family of vintners, Joe O'Neill became the owner of O'Neill's Bar and Ballad Lounge in Bundoran. He was also a long-standing elected member of Bundoran Town Council.
Canon Munster spoke of his dealings with Joe O'Neill as his pastor in times of sickness. "He was always accepting of his illness and glad of the visits by the priest. I must say that I never heard Joe complain.
"I visited Joe in hospital last week. He was obviously not well and getting over recent surgery, but the greeting as gaelic was there, the Our Father and blessing was shared and the request to pray for him was made.
"That is the function and work of the priest - we leave the rest up to God himself"
Fermanagh Herald, 9th October 2013 Tweet
