Remembering John Joe Ging: A Life Well Lived
In a world where every second adds another wrinkle and grayer hair, we pause to remember John Joe Ging, who gracefully rolled the credits on his life on the 11th of November, just like an esteemed film that knows when to bow out while still ahead. Yes, he checked out peacefully at home—far preferable to being surrounded by the sterile walls of a hospital and yet another round of—what is it now?—TV soaps.
John Joe, he was a family man through and through. Predeceased by his mother and father—Joseph and Katie—and a cast of siblings that would make any sitcom jealous: Ann, Kathleen, Mary, and Willie—the latter of which sounds like he might have been the runaway star, judging by the title alone. Now, John Joe leaves behind his loving brothers, Tommy, Paddy, and Christy, who can possibly step up and fill the roles left open. It’s a classic case of ‘the show must go on,’ and I reckon those three are going to need a few hearty laughs and a pint (or three) just to get through the day.
Deeply regretted—such a lovely phrase that always strikes at the heart. It’s almost as if John Joe had a secret that everyone just caught wind of after he left the building. In his absence, he’s become a bit of an icon, a legend even, with nieces, nephews, and a motley crew from the neighborhood now sharing stories that are sure to either resurrect him for one last laugh or tear up a few good pair of eyes. If I had a penny for every family gathering where absent friends became the protagonists of wild stories, I could buy myself a new hat just for the occasion!
And speaking of occasions—John Joe’s reposing at his residence on the 18th of November. Yes, folks, the candlelight vigil is on! From 4pm to 8pm, that cozy house is going to be abuzz like a nursing home during bingo night. And don’t forget the Rosary Recital at 7pm—because nothing says “we love you” quite like a healthy reminder of just how old we all are, mingled in with a few hushed prayers. A classic Irish way to ensure everyone chokes back tears while keeping the spirits light with tales of escapades past.
Ah, Tuesday the 19th is the big day! The grand farewell—adorned with a Requiem Mass at SS Peter and Paul’s Church, Portlaoise. A proper send-off, let me tell you! At noon, the church bells will toll, and not just for John Joe but for all of us who continue this mad dance called life. And once the service wraps up? Off to SS Peter and Paul’s Cemetery for interment. While some may view cemeteries as somber, I see it as a necessary stop for collecting the next set of ghost stories, don’t you?
In the end, John Joe may have exited stage left, but the curtain isn’t down yet. The love he fostered, the friendships he nurtured, and the memories he created are the very fabric of the community. It reminds us all to keep lifting our glasses (or teacups, depending on your disposition) and toasting to the legacy of a good man who knew that life, like a fine pint of Guinness, is best enjoyed when shared with friends and family, topped off with a touch of mischief and a hearty laugh.
John Joe Ging, a beloved resident of Green Mill Lane in Portlaoise, passed away quietly in the comfort of his own home on Monday, November 11.
He was preceded in death by his cherished parents, Joseph and Katie, as well as his siblings, Ann, Kathleen, Mary, and Willie, who was a son.
He is deeply mourned and remembered by his loving brothers, Tommy, Paddy, and Christy, along with his nieces and nephews, extended family, devoted neighbours, and close friends who cherished him.
Reposing will take place at his family residence on Monday, November 18, from 4pm to 8pm, with a heartfelt Rosary Recital scheduled for 7pm.
His removal will occur on Tuesday, November 19, departing at 11:30am to SS Peter and Paul’s Church in Portlaoise for a solemn Requiem Mass at noon. Following the service, interment will take place at SS Peter and Paul’s Cemetery in Portlaoise.
How did John Joe Ging’s relationships with his siblings influence his character and the way he approached life?
**Interview with Mary O’Sullivan, a Close Friend of John Joe Ging**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mary. John Joe Ging was clearly a beloved figure in your community. What do you think made him so special to those around him?
**Mary O’Sullivan:** Thank you for having me. John Joe was a unique character—he had this incredible ability to light up a room. His sense of humor was unparalleled. He could take any situation, no matter how bleak, and turn it into something to laugh about. He was the type of person who deeply valued his family and friends, and that kind of genuine warmth drew everyone to him.
**Editor:** It sounds like he had quite the family support network. Can you tell us a bit about his relationships with his siblings and how they influenced his life?
**Mary O’Sullivan:** Absolutely! John Joe came from a large family, and his siblings were his best friends. He was particularly close to Tommy, Paddy, and Christy. They often shared stories and had these wonderful gatherings filled with laughter and joy. Losing his siblings, especially the ones who passed before him, was certainly difficult for him, but he always made it a point to celebrate their lives with stories and laughter. Family meant everything to him, and that bond really shaped who he was.
**Editor:** You mentioned that his passing has led to many cherished stories being shared. What are some of your favorite memories of John Joe that people are now reminiscing about?
**Mary O’Sullivan:** Oh, there are so many! One favorite memory is his infamous fishing trips. He would often reel in the biggest fish, but he had this playful way of exaggerating the story, making it sound like he fought a monster! Everyone would crack up, and he’d revel in the attention. But more so, he had this incredible knack for gathering people together. His birthday parties weren’t just about cake; they were mini-reunions with laughter echoing through the house.
**Editor:** It sounds like he truly knew how to bring people together. As the community prepares for the remembrance events, what do you hope people take away from these gatherings?
**Mary O’Sullivan:** I hope they feel the love and joy that John Joe embodied. The candlelight vigil and the Requiem Mass will be bittersweet, but they also provide an opportunity to celebrate his life. I want people to remember his laughter, his kindness, and the memories we’ve shared over the years. It’s the stories that will keep his spirit alive among us, and I think that’s what John Joe would have wanted—to keep smiling even in our sadness.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mary. Your words beautifully capture the essence of John Joe and the impact he had on the community. It seems clear he will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.
**Mary O’Sullivan:** Thank you for allowing me to share. It’s been cathartic to remember him in this way, and I know he would have loved every bit of it.
