The Late John Francis O'Brien The death which occurred on 26th August last after a short illness of John Francis O'Brien, Aughamuldoney, Garrison evoked widespread genuine sorrow and regret. One of a family of six born to John who died in 1955 and Mary Ellen nee Maguire, who died 1947, John Francis grew up on the family farm along with his four sisters and one brother. He was predeceased by his brother Joe (1980) and his sister Bridget (1984). He was born in September 1920. He loved his home and the surrounding farm and spent all his life there. In the words of the famous poem, he was a man of the soil. A farmer all his life, he always managed to earn a decent living from the land, even during hard times. His love of the land and animals was self evident in the caring and diligent manner in which he carried out his farming duties. Never missing the local mart in Garrison he was widely recognised as a shrewd judge of cattle and enjoyed meeting the local farmers in this surrounding. He also loved nature and took great delight in watching it evolve. Up until very recently he planted his own potatoes, vegetables and numerous garden plants and shrubs and really enjoyed this peaceful environment. Displayed a remarkable awareness of the simple things in life, John Francis was a loyal family man. In his early years such loyalty was displayed as a son and a brother. From his marriage in 1961 he displayed exemplary devotion and affection to his wife and children, and later to his daughters-in-law and grandchildren. On account of his quiet and inoffensive manner he was particularly popular within the wider family circle and his neighbourhood. He had an avid interest in reading and invariably spent much of his relaxation time transfixed in a newspaper. He could readily converse with anyone on any issue, with a particular interest in current affairs, farming issues and sport. His other great love was the GAA. In his early years John Francis was a keen footballer who played for the famous Corlea team amongst others, and indeed represented Fermanagh on a few occasions. He worked in the preparation of the then new St Mary's Park in 1948, and was full back on the Corlea team who played at the official opening in that year. It was most fitting that he was there in 2000 at the re-opening of the new pitch, to accept a memento of the 1948 opening. He was particularly noted for this sporting attitude and his lengthy kicking of a dead ball. In later years he maintained a great spectator interest in Gaelic games, with particular fond memories of the great Devenish team in the 1960s and later the teams in the late 1980s and early 1990s which included three of his sons. His popularity was reflected in the large numbers who came to his late home and also the funeral Mass officiated by Canon Pat Lonergan P.P., assisted by Fr Pat Brewster (long time family friend) and Fr Kevin O'Rourke (Family Friend). During the homily Canon Lonergan, who had known John Francis for more than 40 years, paid him many apt tributes including the courageous manner in which he faced his illness and his loyal devotion to his Christian faith and prayer. He noted his great love of the land and nature, rounding his home where even Christmas trees were replanted. He added that his gentle and patient demeanour was exemplified at football matches. In the liturgy of the Mass the readings were read by his son Geard and daughter Martina. The prayers of the faithful were led by his sons John, Michael & Patrick. His son Gabriel narrated a poignant Communion reflection. The Gifts were carried by three nieces and his grandson J.J.. The music was led by Therese McGrath and the local choir. He is survived by his wife Susan, sons Gerard (Evelyn), John (Siobhan), Michael (Yvonne), Gabriel and Patrick his daughter Martina and his grandchildren J.J., Jarlath, Oision, Ruairi and Jack. He is also survived by his sisters Rose-Ann, Mary Ellen and Tess, and a wide family circle. The funeral arrangements were carried out by Messrs Carty & McNulty. Courtesy of the Fermanagh Herald September 2002 Tweet

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