There was widespread sadness in the Bennettsbridge community and beyond when news broke of the passing of John Kinsella on New Years Day.
A proud son of Bennettsbridge he touched many lives in countless ways. This became evident from the stream of condolences, messages and tributes which poured in over the days following his death.
John was a real family man. He married his wife Sheila in 1973 and they had 4 children, Jackie, Gerri, Owena and Daniel, as well as 8 grandchildren, whom he absolutely adored. He was so proud of them and their achievements. He was a constant supporter on the sidelines when his grandchildren were involved.
Family meant everything to him and his loss will be felt most by those closest to him, as well as the wider community of Bennettsbridge.
John’s religion was very important to him and he read in church for many years. He took part in all parish activities, including Drama, appearances in Fancy Dress Competitions, Festival events and fundraising down through the years. He was always game for a laugh. I can see him now walking up the path saying, “I have a good one for you”, His mischievous attitude was part of him and this well-loved man will be sadly missed by us all.
While life threw plenty at John; with a cancer diagnosis in the early 2000’s and Parkinson’s later in life, he had a fantastic philosophical outlook about it all. He never let either ‘illness’ hold him back or he never let them get the better of him. Even when his health was deteriorating in the last few months he joined the newly formed Mens Shed and attended a number of meetings. When you had the pleasure to be in his company, you were guaranteed to be captivated by his positivity, his great storytelling ability and overall devil- may-care attitude!!
KILKENNY GAA
The news of John’s passing has deeply saddened the Kilkenny GAA family. Kilkenny GAA expressed their condolences and sympathies to John’s family through an online memorial, highlighting the impact he had on the sport and the community.
John’s memory will forever be cherished, and his contributions to Kilkenny hurling will continue to inspire future generations.
John’s prowess as a hurler was legendary. He was a key player for the Bennettsbridge squad, helping his native parish secure three County Senior titles in 1966, 1967, and 1971. His talent did not go unnoticed, and he was selected for the Kilkenny squad as a teenager in the 1960s.
He progressed through the ranks, representing Kilkenny at the minor, Under 21, and senior levels. His dedication and skill were rewarded with two Leinster Championship medals and two All Ireland medals in 1967 and 1972. An excerpt from the Kilkenny GAA Match programme on Feb 25th detail highlights of his sporting career, “ John was a very proud ‘Bridge man and always spoke so fondly of his time hurling with the great Bennettsbridge teams of the 60’s and 70’s. A player full of speed, tenacity, versatility and no shortage of skill, he went on to win 3 county titles in 1966, ’67 and ’71.
He also captained Bennettsbridge to the Inaugural Kilkenny U-21 Championship in 1967.
John was a member of the Kilkenny Senior Hurling Panel between 1967 and 1973, winning 2 All Irelands and 2 Leinster titles in that time. The All Ireland success in 1967, coming on as a substitute versus Tipperary was very special, as it was Kilkenny’s first victory over Tipperary in 40 years! Another All Ireland followed in 1972 v Cork, with John starting at wing forward”.
John didn’t just excel on the GAA pitch. He was an excellent soccer player who played for both Evergreen and East End United. When his playing days finished, he gave back to the game by taking up the whistle and refereeing in the local leagues. He was also a keen golfer and a founding member of Bennettsbridge Golf Society. John always spoke of the enjoyment he experienced, playing golf amongst friends locally, nationally and on foreign golfing trips.
Outside of sport John was a talented singer, with involvement in local showbands in the 70’s as well as with numerous local choirs. But he will be fondly remembered by most, for the years he spent on the airwaves of our local radio station KCLR. He was one of the station’s most popular presenters during his time there. His involvement as a weekend presenter allowed his voice to reach a wider audience, further solidifying his place in Kilkenny hearts.
His “catch phrase”, “great day for the washing” is still remembered.
Affectionately known as Jack, he was not only a hurling hero but also a cherished member of the Kilkenny community. Beyond his sporting achievements, John was a mechanic by trade and many will remember him as a sales representative for Barlow Nissan, where he built lasting relationships with many people. His warm and friendly nature endeared him to all who knew him, making him a well-liked figure in Kilkenny’s social circles.
John’s impact extended far beyond the hurling pitch. His dedication to his community was evident in his active participation in various social events and organizations, both in Bennettsbridge and beyond.
John Kinsella’s life took an unexpected turn when he received a Parkinson’s diagnosis.
However, he faced this new challenge with unwavering determination and a positive spirit.
Despite the difficulties he encountered, John’s journey with Parkinson’s became an inspiration to many. In the face of adversity, John found solace and strength in music. He joined the Kilkenny Parkinson’s Choir, Cairdeas, where he discovered a supportive community of individuals who shared a common bond. Through the power of song, John and his fellow choir members found comfort, joy, and a sense of unity.
The Kilkenny Parkinson’s Choir provided an outlet for John to express himself creatively and connect with others who understood the challenges of living with Parkinson’s. Their performances not only showcased their musical talents but also served as a source of inspiration for others facing similar struggles. John’s involvement in the choir demonstrated his determination to live life to the fullest, despite the obstacles he faced. His unwavering spirit and commitment to the choir became a testament to the power of music and the strength of the human spirit. Through his participation in the Kilkenny Parkinson’s Choir, John not only found support and camaraderie but also left a lasting impact on the community. His courage and determination continues to inspire others to face their own challenges with grace and resilience.
John lay in repose at his home in Ballyreddin where family, friends and neighbours came in large numbers to pay their final respects. Fr. Roderick Whearty led the prayers during his wake. John wore his 2 blood donation pins and a munster pin in the coffin.
As the remains left the house, John’s grandchildren wheeled his coffin, which was draped with an old Kilkenny Jersey, East End Jersey and flag, from the house to the corner of the Gowran road, where pallbearers, Daniel, his son, sons-in-law, Barry and Damien, grandchild, Donncha and close friends took over, carrying the coffin to the church.
A Guard of honour comprising, East End Soccer Club, Bennettsbridge GAA and Bennettsbridge Camogie club walked on either side. Neighbours and friends followed the funeral procession.
At St Bennett’s Church the remains were received by Canon Pat Duggan and former teammates and friends, Pat Lawlor, Eddie Cunningham, Jim Treacy and Andy Whelan brought the coffin on the final part of the journey.
Requiem Mass was celebrated by Canon Pat Duggan. He welcomed everyone to the celebration of John’s life. He sympathised with the family on behalf of the parish, describing John as a great family man and a good neighbour. Included in his homily was a poem written by John.
First Reading : Tina Keogh(Niece)
Second Reading: Jackie Croke (John’s Daughter)
Prayers of the Faithful: Maria Dunne, Brian Hackett, Emma Ke+ogh, Lisa Meighan, Trish
Dalton, Jamie Kennedy and Tricia Dowling.
The Offertory Gifts with Commentary by Owena Grimes (John’s Daughter) reflected John’s varied interests and included items requested by him and others chosen by his grandchildren.
Donncha, his eldest grandchild, brings forward a Soccer Ball, and a referees whistle, representing the love Dad had for soccer, as a player with East End (and Evergreen) and as a referee. In recent years Dad took great pride in watching Dan and all his grandchildren continue to wear the East End colours.
Leah, presents Dad’s two All Ireland Medals and a sliotar. Dad represented his club and county with great pride and won many accolades with his friends at both local and county level.
Alowen, carries a Munster jersey. Although a proud Kilkenny man, Dad swapped Province allegiance when it came to the oval ball. His love of Munster Rugby was consolidated, encouraged and supported when a Munster man officially joined the family.
Rose, brings forward a CD and Headphones. Dad’s love of music is known to all – from his own performances, to his involvement with singing competitions, to his lengthy radio presenting career. He has always been a member of our own local choir and took pride in being an early member of the Kilkenny Parkinson’s choir – Cairdeas. Dad loved country music and dance and many nights were spent traveling with his sister Moira to Durrow for social dancing.
Robyn, brings family photographs. Dad’s love of family and especially his 8 grandchildren was evident to anyone who knew him. They were his pride and joy. Dad has been affectionately known as Dadders, Dad-da and Grandad John, as more of his grandchildren joined the posse!
Tegan, presents a set of golf balls and a golf club. Dad played pitch and putt for many years and went on to become a passionate golfer as a member of Callan and Gowran golf clubs and loved to play on a regular basis. His foreign trips with his golfing buddies were an annual tradition and highlight. In his latter years, when he was unable to continue to play full rounds of golf, he used to join the boys for a few holes and the refreshments, chats and card games afterwards.
Alice, brings Dad’s Prayer book, a book of his own poetry and his reading glasses. Dad had a very strong faith and a special devotion to the Virgin Mary. He was a passionate reader and swapped many books with myself, Jackie and his circle of friends. He also enjoyed penning his own poetry and has left a legacy of meaningful poems for us all to enjoy.
Henry, the youngest grandchild, offers up Dad’s Ipad and remote control. Dad spent hours in his sitting room watching a myriad of sporting events. He was also a huge fan of quiz shows and his grandchildren loved curling up on the couch beside him, learning how to ‘Beat the Chaser’ and how to outwit ‘Border Control’ – with the aim of smuggling a hurl into Australia in the future!! When Dad was unable to make Mass, he enjoyed watching various masses online, specifically from St. Fiachras and St. Canices parish webcams.
The Bread and Wine were presented by Sheila,(John’s wife) and Moira(his sister).
Music throughout the mass was by the Cairdeas Choir and Bennettsbridge Parish Choir.
The song sung by the Cairdeas choir after Communion – “Somewhere Only We Know” was special to his grandchildren who loved to go see him perform with the choir.
Songs played during Communion: In the Time That You Gave Me; My Last Breath Here and Because He Lived – all songs that John liked – Country and Western connection to his service.
Daniel (John’s son) spoke on behalf of the family. He shared some memories of his father with the congregation. He thanked everyone for their kindness and support over the time of the funeral. They were a great source of comfort at a very sad time. We wish to thank the medical professionals who took care of John during his Illnesses, in recent times the staff at Thomastown Primary Care Unit and the medical staff of St. Luke’s Hospital.
A special thanks to the nurses and care assistants of the Suir Ward.
Thanks to all who visited our home, some of you travelling long distances.
Thanks Fr. Duggan for celebrating John’s funeral mass, your guidance and support is really appreciated. Thanks also to the Cairdeas choir and our own local choir for the beautiful singing.
As the coffin left the church for its final resting place, female family members, Jackie and Leah Croke, Owena Grimes and Linda Kinsella guided it on its way. Prayers were recited by Fr Duggan.
John passed away on 1st January 2024, peacefully, at St. Luke’s Hospital, surrounded by his family. Predeceased by his parents Jimmy and Johanna, brother-in-law Liam Hackett and more recently by his brothers-in-law Liam Dalton and Ned Kennedy. John will be greatly missed by his loving wife Sheila (nee Dalton), daughters Jackie, Gerri, Owena, son Daniel, sister Moira, sons-in-law Barry Croke and Damien Grimes, daughter-in-law Linda Murray, his adored grandchildren Donncha, Leah, Alowen, Rose, Robyn, Tegan, Alice and Henry, nieces and nephew, his large extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
John’s month mind mass will be celebrated on Sunday the 10th March 2024 at 10.30 a.m. in Bennettsbridge Church.
