The sad passing of popular Castlebar man Johnny Morgan was mourned by large crowds at his funeral this month.
Old pal Ernie Sweeney pays tribute this week to the late Johnny Morgan, who was a much-loved character around the town during his 53 years. May he rest in peace.
Johnny was known as a character. He was quick-witted and famous for his one liners. He was also street wise and knew his horses. He knew when to place a bet and was successful most of the time. I don’t bet on horses but I knew him as a friend, ever since he was a little boy.
Johnny joined the Ramblers Club as a child and was full of energy. Later on in life he took part in the 4-Days Walks, this was in Bob Kilkelly’s time and he used to refer to Bob as “shilling”. Those of you of a certain age will understand, for younger readers — the shilling was nicknamed “a bob”.
Johnny was 53 years of age, going on six. He had a childlike attitude to life and saw fun and humour in things that went wrong in life. I shared some sad and lonely moments with him during his lifetime, it was not all sunshine and roses. He had many acquaintances, as he was very well known. He came to the rescue of a lot of people. I have been told many stories and know myself of his good deeds. Many benefited from his good spirit, generosity, and his positive action towards them. They will silently always remember his good deeds.
Johnny was extremely loyal to his dad, Michael Morgan, one of the last of the old cattle drovers. Johnny was very generous to him. About seven years ago Johnny, Fiona, his dad Michael, and I made a recording in the county home of Michael’s life time experiences.
Johnny, like many good people, earned his friends; you just did not get them. To Johnny’s true friends, real friends, and his loyal friends: “I salute You!”. As Thomas O’Grehan, the Blasket Island man, once said: “There won’t be the likes of us again.” Johnny was a rare one, a good one, and a kind one, he was God loving and God fearing in his own way. He will never be forgotten by those who loved him, including myself. Goodbye dear friend, and may you rest in peace. Condolences to both his brothers Michael and Padraig.
- Ernie Sweeney.
