North Mayo mourns renowned publican
The late Mickey O'Boyle was a renowned businessman in North Mayo.
There is great sadness in North Mayo following the passing of a local business owner and dedicated community man.
Michael (Mickey) O’Boyle, The Halfway House, Ardagh was buried last Wednesday in the local cemetery following mass in the Church of the Assumption.
He began work aged 14, working as a barman and draper’s assistant in what was then called Doherty’s in Belmullet. Mickey worked hard and showed great determination and would go on to open his own bar, the Halfway House in Ardagh. It became - and continues to be - a focal point of community life in Ardagh, a place of warmth and welcome.
He met his wife Maura and together they raised two children, Michael and Shauna. Mickey’s family shared the following tribute to him online.
“Dad lived to the remarkable age of 95, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, kindness, family, and true entrepreneurship. He was also a quiet mentor to many, training and encouraging generations of young people in the bar trade within his local parish, always believing in the value of hard work, respect, and giving people their first chance,” they said.
“In later years, nothing gave him more joy than his four beautiful grandchildren, whom he adored and spoke about often.”
Ardagh GAA also paid tribute to Mickey, who they said had a great love for the locality.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Mickey O Boyle. A staunch supporter of everything good that happened in this area and sponsored so many events through his business and his love for everything Ardagh.”
Mickey was pre-deceased by his wife Maura and brothers Paddy and Johnny. He is survived and sadly missed by his children, grandchildren, extended family members, neighbours, loyal customers and friends.
