John's legacy will live on
Tributes paid to John McGrath, RIP
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of John McGrath, of Newlands, Mullingar.
John was well known around the town, and at the Westmeath Examiner, we had most contact with him in his role at the Friends of the Regional Hospital, Mullingar. There he led a team committed to the good of the local hospital, and in particular in raising the funds to install an MRI scannner.
That equipment is now in place, and it will serve as a reminder to the good work John did.
John was also chairperson of the board of directors at Mullingar Arts Centre. This is their tribute to him:
“A true champion of the arts, John’s passion and unwavering support for Mullingar Arts Centre was evident in everything he did.
“John deeply valued community arts projects, always encouraging participation in classes and productions. His dedication to the centre went far beyond leadership - he was a steadfast advocate, always ensuring that the arts had a strong voice. His guidance, generosity, and belief in the power of creativity played a vital role in shaping what we do.
“Alongside his beloved Ann, John enjoyed countless performances here, but Valley of the Squinting Windows held a special place in his heart - especially the unforgettable evening when President Michael D Higgins attended the world premiere in the centre. Moments like those were made even more special by John’s presence, his enthusiasm, and his love for the arts.
“John ensured that Mullingar Arts Centre remained a centre for all the community.
“John will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the centre he cared for so deeply. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Ann, Bernadette, Deirdre and Ray and all his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Rest in peace, John.
John W. MCGRATH, Newlands, Mullingar, March 29, 2025 (peacefully) in the kind and compassionate care of the staff and nurses at St Camillus Nursing Centre, Killucan, after a short illness, bravely borne with great courage and dignity; predeceased by his daughter Ann and his parents Nora and Tony.
John will be deeply missed and forever remembered by the love of his life, his wife Ann, cherished daughters Bernadette and Deirdre, son-in-law Ray, cherished grandchildren Aideen and Alex, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, neighbours and wide circle of friends.
May John’s gentle soul rest in peace
Reposing at Shaws Funeral Home, Bishopsgate Street, Mullingar on Monday March 31, from 3.30pm. concluding with prayers at 6.30pm. Funeral Mass on Tuesday in the Cathedral of Christ the King, Mullingar at 1pm, followed by burial in Ballyglass Cemetery.
John’s Mass can be seen on the live webcam at mullingarparish.ie.
To leave a message of sympathy for the family, please use the Condolences section.
Family flowers only please. Donations if desired to St Camillus Nursing Centre, Killucan.