Sadness at passing of Mayo centenarian
The late Michael Gaynard
There was great sadness in South Mayo at the news of the passing of Michael (Mick) Gaynard.
Mick, from Derrymore, Hollymount, celebrated his 100th last March. He passed away peacefully at Hollymount Nursing Home.
Warm tributes were paid to the deceased online, who was very well-known in the Garrymore and Hollymount communities and beyond. He was a regular and popular figure at the local mart in Ballinrobe and was described in a tribute as ‘one of life’s great characters and an institution of the area’.
“A true legend has gone from our area. It was a pleasure knowing you Mick. We will miss visiting you and the many long debates,” said a tribute from well-known former Garrymore footballer Mattie Joe Connolly and his wife Bernie, who were neighbours of Mick’s.
They and many others also praised Mick’s great friend and neighbour ‘Small’ Tom Hughes, who cared for Mick for almost half a century.
Mick was predeceased by his parents Pat and Kate and his brothers Tommy and Peter.
He is survived by his cousins, neighbours and close friends, especially ‘Small’ Tom Hughes.
He reposed at Gilligan’s Funeral Home in Claremorris yesterday (Sunday) evening. Mick’s funeral mass will take place today (Monday) at 12 noon in the Church of the Immaculate, Roundfort with burial afterwards in Roundfort cemetery.
The mass can be streamed on the Roundfort, Carras, Robeen Facebook page.
