Throughout his illness (apart from his final week spent in hospital), Joe was faithfully cared for in his own home by his wife, Sheila, and family. Support was provided by Marie Curie nurses and district nurse, Monica McCauley.

    Dedicated to his family, he was a much-loved father of six, five surviving. His son, Kieran, who was newly graduated, died tragically in an accident on the family farm in 1991.

    Originally from Canada, Joe was born in St. Paul, Alberta in November 1928. He was nine years old when his family returned to Fermanagh in 1937.

    In spite of being encouraged to pursue his education, it was his desire to remain on the family farm, where his grandfather kept stallion horses.

    As a young boy, he is remembered cycling to shows and fairs - leading a stallion.

    A stalwart in the community, Mr. Smyth served in Enniskillen Rural District Council during the late fifties and sixties and he served on two committees - dealing with finances and housing.

    He is acknowledged for succeeding in having a scheme adopted - bringing a mains water supply across the Sillees River into the Knockmore Road area. Along with a new sewerage scheme, it allowed the development of houses in Knockmore Road and also helped members of the farming community. In 1978, he became a board member of Derrygonnelly Creamery, in succession to his late father, John.

    On the formation of West Ulster Farmers Ltd in 1978, he was appointed to the board. A member of its finance committee, his service continued until his death.

    Joe’s active interest in farming - both locally and generally - earned him much respect.

    Another major interest had been the GAA, in particular Derrygonnelly Harps. He took immense pride in having been a member of the club’s 1959 league winning team, while from 1949 to 1975 he served as club treasurer. He acted as referee for a number of years and had been team manager for a period.

    Prior to the onset of his ill health, he frequently attended matches and could be heard offering his support from the stands.

    In 1963, he married Sheila, formerly Duignan, whom he met at a dance in 1960 in Enniskillen Townhall. The couple, who shared a passion for dancing, had been looking forward to celebrating their Ruby Wedding Anniversary on August 20.

    Spending time with his family was a source of great pleasure for Joe, who enjoyed life to the full.

    He held a keen interest in DIY and he took immense pride in his garden.

    When it came to parish work, he was among those to take the lead.

    In addition, he was involved in the group which started bingo in the old parish hall and he had called the numbers until his son, Kieran’s death.

    He was one of the stalwarts at parish bazaars and he was always available to act as Master of Ceremonies at concerts and functions.

    Since their retirement, Joe and Sheila liked spending time in Belfast wih their family and in recent years enjoyed travels abroad.

    A concelebrated funeral mass for Joe took place in St. Patrick’s Church, Derrygonnelly.

    Parish Priest, the Rev. Fr. Lorcan Lynch was assisted by the Rev. Fr. Brian D’Arcy, the Graan, Enniskillen, and the Rev. Fr. Eddie Conway, P.P., Blackrock, County Dublin.

    Family members took part in the liturgy, while music for the mass was provided by Lisa Burns and Sheena Rasdale and there was singing by Karina McGurn and Catherine Higgins.

    Burial followed in the adjoining cemetery.

    The high regard felt for Joe was reflected in the attendances at his home and the funeral service.

    He is survived by his wife, Sheila; sons: Ray (Paula); Gabriel (Roisin); Nicholas (Lorraine) and Brian; and his daughter, Joanne.

    He also leaves his grandchildren: Dervla, Oran, Tony and baby Lauren. Also surviving Joe are his brother and sisters: John, Birmingham; May McManus, Enniskillen; Vera Conway, Belcoo; and his wide family circle.