The Late John Slevin There was widespread regret when the news filtered through on Tuesday, December 13, that John (Johnny) Slevin, Bunlahy, had passed to his eternal reward at Mullingar Hospital. Johnny was a man for all seasons, a noted publican, farmer, ploughman, ace accordion player with distinction for almost a quarter of a century at both senior and junior level. Although a native of the parish of Colmcille, like his neighbours Paddy and Peter Mimnagh, Paddy Higgins and Michael Holton, he threw in his lot with Colmcille. Outstanding on the football field when the defence was under attack his long clearances with his 'ciotog' proved to be a God-send when Colmcille won the senior championships in 1949 and 1952. Despite being the owner of a pub, with the thriving business, he took a keen interest in agriculture and had a great love for the land and his animals. An excellent judge of livestock, his expert opinion was much sought after especially at Granard Farmers' Mart where his cheery presence will now be sadly missed. His record on the ploughing fields all over Ireland are well documented. A lover of Irish music, during his lifetime, he travelled to Fleadh Ceoils in many provinces with is trusted accordion. Johnny was a dedicated family man and was a much respected member of the community, everyone's friend, always approachable and forever in good humour. Indeed, it can be truly said that Bunlahy will never be the same again without his welcoming presence. His remains arrived at St. Mary's Church, Granard, and were flanked by a guard of honour from both Colmcille Ploughing Association and Colmcille GAA Club, as they were being received by Canon F. Kelly. Canon Kelly was joined at his concelebrated Funeral Mass by Fr. B. Brennan PP Carrick (Johnny's neighbour), Fr. M. Reilly, Fr. P. Beglan and Fr. T. Flynn. As his remains were being taken from the Church to it's final resting place in Granardkille cemetery, a guard of honour was provided by Colmcille GAA and it is a remarkable coincidence that it was made up of relatives or members of the five winning Colmcille senior championship teams of 1980, 1938, 1949, 1952 and 1958. The huge turnout at the funeral ceremonies were indeed reflective of the regard in which the deceased was held by so many. Deepest sympathy is extended by his sorrowing family - wife Jennie, daughter Helen, son-in-law Garard Reynolds, sister Mrs. Helen Whitelaw, grandchildren, nieces, nephews relatives and friends. Ar Dheis De Go Raib a Anam Dilis. Courtesy of the Longford Leader 30 December 2005 Tweet

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