RIP: Leitrim community pays tribute to man who ‘will be sorely missed by many’

A Leitrim community has been paying tribute to a man remembered as “a wonderful man in every way” following his passing. 

James Grimes of Cornaughy, Carrigallen passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, April 3.

He was predeceased by his wife Betty, parents John and Catherine, brothers JP and Liam and sisters Mary and Maggiet.

James will be forever missed by his adoring family, including his son Gerry; daughters Helena (McGovern), Martina (Maxwell), Fiona (Geoghegan) and Anne-Louise (Kelly); brothers Tommy, Joe and Mel; sisters Nelly (Farrell) and Kathleen (Reynolds); sons-in-law Jimmy, Felim, John and Damien; grandchildren Andrew, Elisha, Conor, Darren, Aideen, Liam, Tess and James; and great-grandsons Senan, Peadar, Dessie and Eoghan, as well as his nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends.

Condolences shared on RIP.ie have remembered James fondly.

“I have very fond memories of James growing up which I will treasure forever. He was a true gentleman,” one said.

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“James was a great friend that will have left many fond memories with all who knew him.

May he enjoy a well deserved rest in heaven,” another tribute read.

“One of life's gentlemen. Remembering James for his gentleness and kindness on the school bus and the same kind greeting whenever one met him,” stated another.

Funeral Mass for James took place on Monday, April 6 at St Mary’s Church in Carrigallen, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Further tributes reflected warmly on James and the memories he shared with those who knew him.

“He was an incredible gentleman and a pleasure to get to know, along with the entire family. James always had a glint in his eye and was fond of mischief which endeared him to everyone that had the pleasure to meet him,” another said.

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“James was a gentleman and loved by so many, he always had a story to tell and loved to be involved, he was a great man for knowledge and teaching, he loved the loy and his horses, always find him at a mart, so many memories I will forever treasure of James and Betty too,” detailed another.

“James was a great friend that will have left many fond memories with all who knew him.

May he now enjoy a well deserved rest with Betty in the peace of Heaven,” read another.