Minister of State Dara Calleary TD has paid tribute to the late Mary Jo Murray nee Battle of Park Road, Swinford, who passed away last week.
A native of Ballina, Mary Jo married Joe Murray in 1959 and resided in Swinford. She was pre-deceased by her husband in 1993.
Mary Jo acted as secretary of Mayo East Fianna Fáil Comhairle Dáil Cheantair and Swinford Comhairle Cheantair during the 1980s and ‘90s. Both Mary Jo and Joe were 100 per cent committed to Fianna Fáil and were tireless workers for the organisation.
Their house was renowned for its hospitality and was the focal point for many party gatherings over the years.
The Murrays often hosted high-ranking members of Fianna Fáil including taoisigh Jack Lynch, Charlie Haughey, and Albert Reynolds (who was a personal family friend ) at their home.
Mary Jo was also a renowned actress and took part in stage productions across the county as an integral member of the Swinford Drama group. In recent years she gained tremendous renown as a producer.
“Those of us who knew Mary Jo were privileged. She was hugely committed to everything she took on, especially to Fianna Fáil and to her drama group. Her hospitality and generosity were renowned and she was especially committed to encouraging young people to get involved in politics. We will all miss her tremendously.
“I want to express my deepest sympathy to her sons Gerard and Giles, her daughter-in-law Vicky, her sister Joan, brother Tony, brother-in-law Seamus, and wider family and large circle of friends,” said Minister Calleary.
