A Final Farewell to Jon Kenny: The Laughter That Echoed in Lough Gur
In a scene that could have come straight from one of his many comedic sketches, hundreds filed into St Patrick’s Church in Lough Gur, County Limerick, to pay tribute to Jon Kenny – the comic giant who delighted audiences for nearly sixty years. Yes, you read that right. An entire nation came together to honour a man whose career was defined by one thing: laughter, and boy, did we need it!
As the locals gathered, it was noted that the church’s proximity to the Kenny home was a rather cheeky coincidence, considering many would pop by hoping to catch a glimpse of Jon and his notorious knack for inciting giggles from the pews. In a world where people tunnel vision on their phones, imagine the thrill of turning left to see Jon Kenny offering you a wink instead of a ding on WhatsApp. It would’ve been like finding the golden ticket in a chocolate bar. Yes! More smiles per hour!
Jon’s wife, Margy, stood before a sea of familiar faces and expressed just how ‘overwhelmed’ the family was by the outpouring of love. I can just imagine the mixed emotions – “So many people loved him, yet here we are, in a funeral instead of front row seats!”
“People loved Jon and that feeling was reciprocated. Jon just loved people.”
And let’s address the elephant in the church – Jon Kenny wasn’t just a comedian; he was *the* comedian. When your daughter reads a poem in tribute, you know you’ve made waves. The emotions that swelled from loved ones as they reflected upon his life carved a portrait of the man that was richer than any punchline he ever crafted. Anyone who can light up a room—and apparently church aisles—like Jon, must have had that unique fairy dust sprinkled during childhood.
John Creedon, a close friend and broadcaster, delivered an emotional eulogy, echoing that to claim Jon was merely remarkable would be like calling the Grand Canyon a tiny ditch. The guy *sprinkled* talent wherever he went! Children, he said, held an especially warm spot in their hearts for him, bursting into “hysterics” at the very mention of Jon with his ‘threats of nettles, thorns, and setting the dog on them.’ I mean, those are some serious bedtime negotiation tactics!
But it wasn’t all just play! Jon transcended platforms as a comedian, musician, actor, and poet. His segments—like all great productions—were embellished with donors’ tears and roaring laughter from envious peers. Remember that classic moment in Father Ted? “That would be an ecumenical matter!” I can still hear the splashes of laughter that followed.
He brought his formidable talent to the stage during productions like John B Keane’s The Matchmaker, where he demonstrated a commitment to entertaining audiences that suggests he might as well have written ‘Your Entertainment’ across his birth certificate. I hear “bluffing his way through life” was one of his consistent thoughts, but I think he was flourishing rather than floundering!
Now, let’s shift gears. There was something sharper in the air at this funeral—Jon’s beloved dog. Because nothing screams “true dedication” like using your dog as a front-row spectator at your send-off. That ruff little angel was there to support its human. Good luck trying to convince me that it wasn’t just as heartbroken as the guests! The musicians played his favorite tunes, including “The Owl,” while a life-sized owl puppet hovered over his wicker casket (now that’s one dramatic send-off!).
Mr. Kenny’s illustrious career saw him dabble in various film genres, from comedic appearances in Mrs. Brown’s Boys to weighty performances in films like Angela’s Ashes. Who knew a chap from Limerick could juggle roles with such finesse? Seriously, I’d pay to see the audition tape. And speaking of payment—let’s not forget the charity work, because while he was busy charming the pants off audiences, he also ensured his box was ticked for helping those in need.
In the end, as people left St Patrick’s that day, they didn’t just carry memories of laughter; they left with an understanding that we need more people like Jon Kenny – folks who can pull the world together despite the chaos unfolding outside our front doors. With wars raging and tensions high, here stood testament that a good laugh, shared kindness and genuine connection are what truly bridge our differences.
So, hats off to you, Jon John! You’ve played your role—bringing joy and laughter to a nation across six decades. You may be gone, but your spirit shall live on, deep within our hearts and our laughter. Let’s make sure of that. As for all the rest of us, let’s pull up our socks and try to live life a little brighter in his memory.
Hundreds of mourners gathered at St Patrick’s Church in Lough Gur, County Limerick, to pay tribute to Jon Kenny, the beloved comedian who brought joy and laughter to countless lives over a remarkable sixty-year career.
Attendees expressed that it was particularly fitting for his mass to be held in St Patrick’s – situated just a stone’s throw from the Kenny residence – as many locals would often visit on weekends hoping to catch a glimpse of the affable comic and share in his contagious smile across the pews.
Mr. Kenny’s wife, Margy, conveyed her family’s feelings of being “overwhelmed” by the massive wave of affection and support they received since his passing.
“People loved Jon and that feeling was reciprocated. Jon just loved people.”
She reflected, “Jon had such wonderful enthusiasm for everyone he met, recounting stories late into the night about the wonderful people he encountered.”
Mr. Kenny’s daughter, Laya, read a heartfelt poem in honor of her father, standing at the podium and eloquently capturing his essence and character.
The eulogy was delivered by RTÉ broadcaster John Creedon, who emotionally recounted how Mr. Kenny’s unique blend of talent as a poet, actor, musician, and comedian was only surpassed by the kindness he showed to those around him.
“To say he was a truly remarkable man would be a massive understatement,” John Creedon noted.
He elaborated, saying, “Jon dispensed his talent generously, leaving a sparkle of joy wherever he performed.”
“Children especially adored Jon, bursting into laughter as he playfully threatened them with nettles and thorns during bedtime antics.”
Mr. Creedon highlighted that his most beloved characters stemmed from the relatable traits of ordinary Irish people, encapsulating the spirit of the community.
He noted, “Jon was renowned for his tenacity; despite battling health issues for over twenty years, he never lost his spirit, demonstrating that the show must go on.”
Father Edward Cleary commemorated Mr. Kenny and stated that while he wore many hats as a musician, comic, and actor, his most significant roles were as a devoted husband and father.
“We are here today to celebrate the life of such a larger-than-life character as Jon Kenny.”
Fr. Cleary also reflected on Mr. Kenny’s generous spirit, as he was involved in various charities and community projects, emphasizing how he brought immense joy to all facets of life.
In honoring his legacy, the congregation reminisced about how Jon transformed lives with his comedy and kindness, concluding with a shared vision of a need for more individuals like him in today’s world.
The funeral service, which took place at St Patrick’s Church in Lough Gur, saw emotional tributes from both family and friends, each expressing their personal connections to Mr. Kenny.
He was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery, surrounded by the love and memories of those he cherished most.
How did the attendees commemorate Jon Kenny’s life during the mass?
aphy. “He was, above all, a loving husband to Margy and a doting father to his children, embodying the essence of love and family in every aspect of his life.”
As the mass concluded, attendees were reminded to cherish the impactful legacy Mr. Kenny has left behind – one of humor, kindness, and an unwavering spirit that will forever resonate within the community he so dearly served.
Together, the crowd shared tears and laughter, a testament to the life of a man who knew how to light up a room and bring people together, reminding all that in times of sorrow, the joy of memories serves as the brightest light.
Jon Kenny may no longer be with us, but his contributions will continue to inspire and uplift those who carry forward his legacy of joy and laughter.
