Those of us who had the pleasure of knowing Peter Joseph McCarthy were saddened to hear of his death in St Patrick’s Hospital, Fermoy after a long illness.
While Peter was unwell following a fall at his home in Monadrishane, Kilworth, he nevertheless very much enjoyed and appreciated his time in St Patrick’s Hospital where many might say he ‘ruled the roost’ during his stay there.
He was always loud in his praise for the care attention afforded to him by the matron and staff.
Peter, who was in his 94th year, was known for his devout way of life and, during his lifetime, dedicated much of his time to Church affairs.
In fact his wish was that when he eventually would die, he be allowed remain two nights in St Martin’s Church where in his time he served as altar boy, sacristan, Legion of Mary member, choirster and general helper.
A great organiser, he ran many outings to holy shrines and his annual outings to Knock were legendary.
In his young days, Peter was a member of the original KIlworth Dramatic Society alongside people like Jimmy Hanlon, Tom Cotter, Peggy Cussen, Paul Cotter, Imelda Reidy, Joan Hanlon, Virgie Cussen and of course his great friend Jackie Doran.
He was responsible for rejuvenating the society in the 1970s and as well as being a cast member, held a number of positions on the committee.
His early working years were spent at John L O’Brien’s The Blue Dragon, now Corbett Court) and later as a van salesman with wholesaler Patrick O’Connor, O’Rahilly Row, Fermoy with whom he worked up until the time of his retirement.
Peter’s Requiem Mass will be held on this Friday (26th) at 11.30am in St Martin’s Church. Burial afterwards in Kilcrumper Old Cemetery.
He will be sadly missed by his loving sister-in-law Peggy McCarthy, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom we extend our sincere sympathy.
