Well known Belcoo man Jim Conway will be remembered as someone who was a “friend to everyone”.

The 87 year old passed away from Covid-19 at the South West Acute Hospital on January 17 and his daughter Ciara spoke about the man who was such an integral part of the community in Belcoo for decades.

Born in 1933 in Cookstown, Jim’s family moved to Belcoo in 1936 after his family bought a business known as Kelly’s Hotel.

His education was gained at Belcoo Primary School, a year at St. Michael’s College, Enniskillen before he went to St. Mary’s Boarding School, Dundalk where he completed his Leaving Cert.

By then the family business had grown in the border village and it was a natural progression for Jim to work there from 1952.

“He poured his heart into his family, businesses and community, it would have been a rare occasion to see him sit still,” said Ciara.

Indeed, it would be a rare occasion when he got to sit still as the family business consisted of a shop, a Public House, a Funeral Undertakers, Auctioneering and Farming.

And his work ethic was epitomised in the length of time he continued working explains Ciara: “He remained a funeral director until he was 85 years of age working alongside his son Paschal who now runs the business.”

Memorable character

Through his work which was situated at the heart of the village overlooking the Cottage Meadow and Lough MacNean, everybody would have known or come across Jim.

“You couldn’t find a single soul in Belcoo who didn’t know him, he was without doubt a most memorable character whose quick wit meant he also would have a few jokes up his sleeve.

“He was a friend to everyone and forever generous with his time, going out of his way to help others.”

And while a busy man with the various businesses he owned, Ciara said that did not stop him from being a devoted husband to Vera for over 60 years, a caring attentive father to Marie, Paschal, Veronica and Ciara and a doting grandfather to his 12 grandchildren.

Jim’s popularity and the mark he left on the village of Belcoo was seen on the day of his funeral as people stood socially distancing along the road from his late residence of Lakeview House to Holywell Church to pay their respects.

This along with those who sympathised, sent flowers, sent cards, text messages and made phone calls were a great comfort to Jim’s family.

“Every thought and gesture were greatly appreciated by the family. To all who have donated in lieu of flowers to Ellie’s Retreat, we thank you all as it was very close to his heart,” added Ciara.

And while the family are still coming to terms with the passing of their husband, father and grandfather from coronavirus, Ciara has a stark warning: “Covid-19 is very real. Daddy passed away from Covid and we just want to emphasise the importance of wearing a mask and social distancing.”

Jim Conway, loving husband of Vera and father of Marie (Nigel), Paschal (Kate), Veronica (Jos) and Ciara (Billy). Brother of Fr Eddie and Eugene (Dublin) was laid to rest on Friday, January 22.

He will be dearly missed by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends who mourn his passing. Pre-deceased by his brother Brendan and grand-daughters Aoife and Ellie.