Smyth, Brendan
January 29, 2013Brendan Smyth, Drumhuskert, Kilmeena, Westport and Creighan, County Cavan, proprietor of MidWest Furniture, passed away peacefully at his home on January 2, following a long illness.
The eldest of five children, Brendan was born to John Francis and Eileen Smyth on June 25, 1946. He grew up in Creighan, on the outskirts of Cavan town, a stone's throw from the home of Cavan GAA, Breffni Park. His first job was at McDonnell's Bakery in Cavan town, assisting his Dad on the daily bread round. The time spent with his Dad gave him a love of travelling that stayed with him for the rest of his life, with no journey ever too long to undertake. Each journey was a delight as Brendan was never happier than when he was behind the wheel.
In June, 1965, Brendan emigrated to England and settled in London. His work ethic, drive and ambition ensured that he was always in demand. Employment ranged from Lyons' Factory at Cadbury Hall to various roles within the sales and building trades. As time passed, he progressed to the well-regarded position of foreman at Murphy's, the well-known building firm of that time. In his spare time, Brendan set up an antique stall on the world-famous Portobello Road. This was through a life-long interest in old collectibles such as vases, clocks and fascinating curios.
It was at this same time that Brendan met the love of his life, Kilmeena native, Teresa Coleman. They married in January, 1968, and went on to have a family of four children, Caroline, Diane, Rory and Dean. These were very happy times for him and his young family.
Brendan was immensely proud of his roots. Trips with the family to Ruislip GAA grounds were regular events. He always looked forward to the annual London Irish Festival in Roundwood Park, celebrating his love and pride in Irish country music, dance and tradition. This event was never missed.
In 1979, Brendan, Teresa and family returned to Ireland, settling in Drumhuskert. Here, he set about building a new home that he had great pride in. It was during this time that Brendan got to know people within the parish who would go on to become great friends.
Brendan was a man who was not afraid of a challenge. His love of antiques, combined with his ambition to work for himself were the main reasons in starting his own business. Initially, Brendan travelled to
the U.K. sourcing good quality second-hand and antique furniture. He would pack his lorry to capacity and on his return home hold a sale in the old Kilmeena Community Centre. This proved to be very successful and due to high demand, he expanded these sales across Connacht.
As the business developed, Brendan recognised the need to establish a permanent base. He secured a premises close to his home on the Newport Road and began trading as MidWest Furniture in 1982. It wasn't long before Brendan needed the help of his two sons, Rory and Dean to work alongside him. People travelled from far and wide to buy all sorts of items for their homes - furniture, tools, bicycles, books... you would always find something!
Times changed and Brendan moved with them. New furniture was introduced from Ireland and overseas and in 2003, the new showroom was opened. Everyone was appreciated, from the loyal customers of the early auctions to the younger generation starting out. A warm welcome from Brendan was a constant feature of a visit to MidWest Furniture. Regular contact with people in the same line of work forged lasting friendships, with a mutual love of country music and GAA being the favourites.
Kilmeena GAA Club was very dear to Brendan. His involvement ranged from supporter, committee work and sponsorship of the club. The Clubman of the Year Award was presented by Brendan to many worthy people within the parish. As a dedicated Mayo fan and a member of Cairde Mhaigheo, Brendan regularly travelled to games, displaying the green and red with pride. Brendan is still remembered with fondness as a referee in the early 80's. He also had a huge interest in Ulster football but, the blue and white of Cavan always held pride of place.
Irrespective of loyalty, come September, the scramble for All-Ireland tickets would begin. Many colleagues and friends worked together to ensure that they would be there on the big day. If you travelled with
Brendan, you would travel in style as his car was the one luxury he afforded himself. His love of vintage vehicles also brought him to numerous shows across the country.
Good country music was a must - listening to the likes of George Jones, Joe Dolan and Big Tom gave Brendan great pleasure throughout his life. Last October, one of his idols, Big Tom paid a surprise visit to Brendan's home. This kind gesture was much appreciated by Brendan and his entire family, a moment cherished by all.
Brendan was an honest, fair and generous man. He willingly gave to so many local bodies, charities and other worthy causes to help those in their time of need. This same kindness was repaid to Brendan during his illness, something he very much appreciated.
A dedicated family man, Brendan and Teresa enjoyed over forty-five years together. Brendan adored his ten grandchildren and played a huge part in all their daily lives.
Large crowds gathered at the family home and attended the funeral Mass to pay their respects. Following Mass in St Brendan's Church, Myna, Kilmeena, Brendan was laid to rest in Myna Cemetery.
He is sadly missed by his wife Teresa, daughters Caroline (Fahy), Diane (Kilmeena), sons Rory (Kilmeena), Dean (Doughmakeown, Louisburgh), sons-in-law Kyran and Dermot, daughters-in-law Denise and Philomena, grandchildren Carla, Conor, Grace, Shauna, Ross, Niall, Amy Rose, Brian, Eoghan and Oisin, sisters Ann (Waterford), Rita (Cavan), brothers Shane (Essex) and Victor (Cavan), brothers-in-law
Thomas, Frankie, Mickey and Walter, sisters-in-law Mary, Anne, Anna and Brenda, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends. May his gentle soul rest in peace.
Courtesy of The Mayo News. Tweet
