The death has occurred of James Lyons, 159 Main Street, Castleisland, Co. Kerry and formerly J.K. O’Connor’s Emporium, Castleisland.
On June 20th 2019, peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of the late Mary.
Sadly missed by his loving family: Jim in Limerick; Maura in Ovens, Cork; John, Eileen and Anne in Castleisland; sons-in-law,daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sister Bridie in Cork; nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
May His Gentle Soul Rest In Peace.
Passions in Life
The late James Lyons (94) had a few great passions in the course of his long life. After his family and friends, his life’s work as a drapery clerk combined with gardening and politics – and he had a deep commitment to all.
He was a regular on the doorsteps with various Fianna Fáil candidates down through the decades and I missed him from last month’s Kerry County Council election count in Tralee.
Job for Life
James was of a generation which didn’t consider it unusual to hold the one job for the entirety of a working life.
He did just that and spent over half a century at the aforementioned J.K. O’Connor’s Emporium or The Market House – where he saw all the great changes over those years.
Began in 1941
He began his working life there in May 1941 and celebrated his 50th behind the counters of the landmark business house in May 1991 with management and staff.
His apprenticeship there began with the task of filling and weighing bags of potatoes before eventually graduating to becoming the go-to man for customers from all over the county and beyond.
Working in his Garden
In more recent years James was a familiar figure working in his garden at home at the opposite side of town or leaning over the wall chatting or passing on gardening advice to people on their way to or from An Ríocht or the town park.
In terms of commitment and stability in what he did, James Lyons was certainly of his generation and time. That his likes won’t be seen again is also a certainty.
May God be good to him
Funeral Arrangements
Reposing at Tangney’s Funeral Home, Church Street, Castleisland on Friday evening from 5pm to 7pm. followed by removal to Castleisland Parish Church.
Requiem Mass on Saturday at 11am. Burial afterwards in St. John’s Cemetery, Castleisland.
Donations, if desired, to the Castleisland Day Care Centre.
Date Published: Thursday 20th June 2019. Date of Death: Thursday 20th June 2019.
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