A well-known member of the Irvinestown community and latterly of Hunters Moon, Enniskillen, Mrs Jo Charlton passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at South West Acute Hospital, June 27, aged 79. A much loved mother, grandmother, sister and friend she had been an active figure prior to the onset of Parkinson’s disease.

Formerly Jo Lappin, she was born and educated in Sligo, a place and people that remained close to her heart. It was there that she developed what would continue to be a lifelong interest in and love for theatre and the Arts, with a special passion for the poetry of William Butler Yeats. She was a founding member of The Sligo Drama Circle, performing in many early productions and a constant presence at The Yeats Summer and Winter Schools.

From Sligo she moved to Irvinestown when she married Billy Charlton. Her connection to the town was strong being the niece of the then local Parish Priest Fr. Bernard Lappin and his sister Josie. She worked in the family newsagent there for many years and was also a warm and familiar presence at the subsequent family business, Concorde, Enniskillen.

Jo had a keen sense of fashion throughout her life which was reflected in her elegant appearance and reserved style.

Among her other interests were her garden and photography. She listened avidly to the radio and read at least one newspaper daily resulting in informed opinions on current and cultural affairs.

Despite being a quiet and private figure, she managed to support, from her own experience, many in the community who were dealing with personal and addiction related issues and it is this for which she shall be so fondly remembered.

She is survived by her three daughters, Nessa, Orla and Liadhan, her five grandsons Zach, Saul, Sam, Josh and Will, her sons-in-law Richard Greenaway and Stanley Townsend and by her sisters Una, Bernadette and Catherine. She was predeceased by her beloved Billy and sister Mary, both in 1997.

Her funeral at the Sacred Heart Church, Irvinestown was concelebrated by Fr. Mc Gourty and Fr. Pascal Scallon. Family members were actively involved in the service with readings by Nessa and Sam, Prayers of the Faithful by Saul, Josh, Will and Zach, a Yeats Poem spoken by Stan and hymns sung by Eabha McMahon. Zach gave a eulogy at the graveside in the adjoining churchyard.

The funeral arrangements were by Jim Barnett, Irvinestown.

The Month’s Mind Mass will be held at The Sacred Heart Church, Irvinestown on August 8 at 7pm.