'Welcoming smile for everyone' - Ballina mourns loss of one of its great characters

Ballina is mourning the loss of Ferdia ‘Fab’ McNamara.

There was tremendous shock and sadness following the unexpected passing of the popular DJ at the age of just 55.

A larger-than-life character, Ferdia’s infectious personality cheered the spirits of anyone who crossed his path.

Ferdia, of Brook Lane, and formerly of Greenhills Estate, Ballina, was a renowned DJ in the locality for many years.

He soundtracked many a night out in Ballina in venues such as Timmy McGrath’s and Brennan’s Lane. He had also been a well-regarded member of the staff at Belleek Castle and Connors Garden Centre.

Ferdia will be sadly missed by his heartbroken siblings Marian Rafter, Niall, Ciaran, Pearse, Padraig, Cliona Mulligan, Michéal, Deirdre Madden, Roisín Hull and Niamh Anderson, brothers and sisters in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours, and friends.

His brother Padraig told the Western People that his family will always remember Ferdia’s amazing sense of fun.

“His friend George Armstrong tells the story of going into Timmy’s bar on a blazing hot summer’s day and Ferdia was blasting out Christmas songs! That’s the kind of fella he was, he loved taking the mickey,” said Padraig.

Padraig said Ferdia’s love of music came from his late parents Tommy and Bridgie McNamara who were great singers.

“That love of music was there all the time. He had an unreal gift as a DJ.”

Padraig said the family will miss his caring and kind nature.

“He would do anything for anyone. He would give you his last penny, He was just such a lovable fella.”

Online tributes flooded in following the news of Ferdia’s death.

“Ferdia was such a gent, great craic and always had a welcoming smile for everyone,” read one.

“It was an honour and pleasure to have known him from childhood and also to be the target of his wit and humour throughout the years. Thank you Fab for your caring and friendly way all that time. Rest in peace and spin your turntable above,” commented another friend.

“Great memories of him playing the music in the locals and plenty of jibing in between tunes. It was always a pleasure to meet him and he would have you in stitches every time. Ferdia will leave a tremendous void in the lives of so many people,” read another of the many tributes to the hugely popular Ballina man.

The esteem in which Ferdia was held was reflected in the huge crowds that attended his funeral in Ballina last Thursday and Friday. Requiem Mass was celebrated at St Muredach’s Cathedral on Friday morning followed by a private cremation service at McGowan’s Crematorium, Collooney, Sligo.