Longford and Cavan mourning loss of local businessman with extraordinary life story

John Donnelly of Main Street, Arva, Cavan / Longford who passed away in October had been in failing health but his passing evoked widespread regret over the area. 

Born in Fostra but reared in Clonelly, Moyne he was a proud Longford man who like many of his time went to America as a young man. It was there he met his future wife Alice Masterson, Moyne and they were married in 1963. 

Their eldest daughter Rosemarie was born in New York and some months later they came home firstly to Mastersons, Moyne and then to upper Main Street, Arva. Mr Donnelly opened his first butchers shop on Upper Main Street, before buying the former O’Neill’s Butchers Shop opposite Keith's where he oversaw a thriving business.

He had his own abattoir on his home farm so he had total control over his products. He had a great love of the land and enjoyed farming and spent many hours in Clonelly.

Mr Donnelly and Alice purchased the former White’s Home on Lower Main Street in the mid ‘70’s where they have since resided. He immersed himself in the life of his community – he was a great GAA man and used his van for years to bring underage players to games. 

He acted as a selector to the adult teams and was always available to help out. He was a member of the Arva Area Development Association and was one of those who erected the Christmas Lights in the town for years. 

He was in charge of the Arva Bingo on Sunday nights for many years following in the footsteps of the late PJ Smith. He made a huge commitment to the bingo and would be in the hall for at least an hour before everyone else sorting out books and quickies to have everything ready when the doors opened. 

One of his great pastimes was hunting pheasants in the winter. He also loved a game of cards and would enjoy the banter with his friends. John never lost his love for New York and enjoyed many visits back there to renew acquaintances and especially to visit his sisters Angela and Mary. 

Mr Donnelly reposed at Glennon’s Funeral Home, Longford with removal from his home on Main Street to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Arva for requiem mass followed by cremation in Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan. The town closed down as the hearse went up to the Church flanked by the Arva team who won the Cavan Junior Championship just a short time before he passed away. 

It seemed he had waited until they won the game where his grandson Barry played a major role. All the business people and their staff stood outside their premises as a mark of respect and a large number walked behind the hearse along with his family. 

John was predeceased by his infant brother Michael, sister Mary, brothers in law Danny, Tony, Paddy and is survived by his wife Alice, daughters Rosemarie, Oona, Eimear, son Sean, sister Angela, grandchildren, daughter and sons in law, sisters and brothers in law, cousins, nephews, nieces, extended family and a large circle of neighbours and friends to all of whom we extend sincere sympathy.