Mr John McGreevy

IT is with great sadness that the family of Mr John McGreevy formerly of Ardmeen Green, Downpatrick announce his passing last month. 

John passed away peacefully at his home in Fleetwood, Blackpool, on October 23, after a long illness that he bore with great stoicism and typical the resolve for which he was known. 

Although his passing was sudden, it was comforting that his final days were spent with his devoted wife, Mary, family and friends at home. 

Born in Downpatrick in 1949, John was the son of the late John and Ellen McGreevy. John had twelve brothers and sisters – Marie, Kyran, Deirdre, Agnes, Charles, Enda, Valerie, Margaret, Raymond, Olga, Hugh and Regina.  He was predeceased by his sisters, Marie and Agnes, brothers Charle, Enda and a sister who died in infancy. 

John and Mary had three children – Desmond, Paul and David.

The family settled in Coventry where John continued his career as a psychiatric nurse at Walsgrave Hospital, having begun his training in the Downshire Hospital. 

John excelled in his chosen profession and retired as the senior nursing officer in the crisis intervention team at Blackpool’s Victoria Hospital. 

John, who was highly regarded by managers, peers and patients alike, was a dedicated professional and always available to his friends and colleagues.

His advice and support were often sought and his compassion and thoughtfulness for patients were readily acknowledged. 

However, it was to his family that he was most dedicated. The father of three sons he was a keen sports fan and enjoyed supporting Coventry City. 

John played an important and valued role in the lives of his sons and daughters-in-law. In later years he took great pride and satisfaction from his five grandchildren – Michael, Shona, Ryan, Jack and Georgia. He was also stepfather to Sean and Michael. 

John and Mary travelled  home to Downpatrick often. They enjoyed travelling around Ireland and meeting immediate and extended family in Downpatrick, Rathfriland and the surrounding areas. 

John will be lovingly remembered by his wife, sons, daughters-in-law, stepsons, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and extended family circle. 

John’s Month’s Mind Mass will be at 7pm this Saturday, November 23, in St Brigid’s Church, Downpatrick.