Memorial bench dedicated to late Longford legend Mike Prunty

Longford County Council has dedicated a memorial bench to the late Mike Prunty at Corn Hill in a moving ceremony attended by family, friends, and community representatives from both sides of the Atlantic.

The gathering honoured a man whose 65-year commitment to County Longford causes made him one of the county's most distinguished ambassadors.

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Mike Prunty, who passed away on December 9, 2024, served as President of the County Longford Association of Greater New York for the longest tenure in its 133-year history.

Officials from Longford County Council, family members and members of the local community joined dignitaries from the County Longford Association of Greater New York at the county's highest point Corn Hill for the ceremony last week.

The ancient landscape, marked by two passage tomb cairns, provided a fitting backdrop for remembering the late Mike Prunty’s extraordinary legacy.

Born in Ballincurry, Drumlish in 1940, Mike Prunty emigrated to New York in 1959 where he became a pillar of the Irish community.

Mike had a very successful career in the building management industry. He helped countless emigrants secure employment whilst encouraging participation in Longford sporting and cultural organisations.

Mike also served as an officer in the Ancient Order of Hibernians and President of the United Irish Counties.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, "Mike Prunty embodied the finest qualities of our diaspora—never forgetting his roots whilst building bridges between communities. This memorial bench at Corn Hill ensures future generations walking this ancient landscape will pause to remember a man who dedicated his life to helping others from his native county. His legacy spans two continents and will inspire us for generations."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, "Mike Prunty’s story represents the best of the Irish emigrant experience—someone who achieved success whilst remaining deeply connected to his home county of Longford. His work supporting new arrivals in New York demonstrated remarkable compassion and community spirit. This memorial bench at such a significant location reflects the profound impact one person can have when they dedicate their life to serving others."

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The ceremony concluded with refreshments at Áras an Chontae, Longford County Council HQ where attendees shared memories of Mike Prunty’s generous spirit and enduring influence.