RIP: Longford community mourns death of outstanding ballroom dancer and devoted family man

So many times I have commented on the arrival to our community of great people to work with Bord na Móna and ESB, and it is with great sadness I record the death of one of these great people when we learned of the death on Tuesday, May 13 in Innis Ree Nursing Home, Ballyleague, of John Jordan, formerly of 34 The Green, at the age of 89.

John was predeceased some nine years ago by his wife Bernadette (Dettie) after 59 years of marriage.

John a native of Fairymount, Co Roscommon came to reside on The Green when he got employment as a fitter with Bord na Móna in 1969.

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He was an outstanding ballroom dancer and along with Dettie they won numerous dancing competitions and they were always a joy to watch when dancing at local functions. John was also a wonderful singer with great renditions of many Irish songs and ballads.

When along with Dettie they arrived in Lanesboro, John was content to make the Green his forever home and from there he raised his family with a great devotion and family ethic. He was always an encourager and believer that a lot of knowledge and education is no extra burden to carry.

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Although not a player in his time here he was a very keen watcher of sport and supporter of his family in their sporting exploits.

As technology began to develop John embraced it and armed with his iPod he kept in touch with his family worldwide via face time and social media. When he rang you you had better answer as he would keep ringing until your battery ran out. Family was his main priority and it remained so right up to the time that he could no longer contact them due to his failing health.

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The abiding memory of John in his retired years was of him daily strolling down the town and he was instantly recognisable by his warm and friendly greeting and his distinctive cap. We will all miss John Jordan but we will always fondly remember him for the many memories.

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John reposed in Glennon’s Funeral Home, Longford on Thursday, May 15 before being removed to his home where he was to spend his final night in his own residence. On Friday, his Funeral mass took place in St Mary’s Church after which he was laid to rest alongside Dettie.

To his sons Frank, Johnny, Declan, Anthony, Fintan and Wesley, his daughters Mary, Caroline and Lisa, his sister Frances, extended family and many friends we extend our sincere sympathy.

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