Little did the tradesmen, friends, neighbours and carers who visited the home of Jimmy McKinney in Moy, Co Tyrone know that he remembered them and anyone else he came in contact with each day in his nightly prayers.
Jimmy was a modest, unassuming man whose love and friendliness for people was one of his greatest assets.
Born in the Donnelly Hill, Benburb in 1928, one of four siblings, Jimmy knew how to appreciate the simple things in life with his love of the outdoors, nature, painting, poetry and music.
His greatest love was his wife Mary (Donaghy) who he was married to for over 60 years, as well as his children, Lindsay, Margaret, Francis (deceased), Siobhan and Bronagh.
Having spent two spells in Australia in the 1950s before returning to attend his ill father Patrick, Jimmy reared his family in Currans Brae in the tranquil village of Moy.
He worked in the nearby Moygashel Mills in Dungannon and then a longer employment with the Housing Executive, pristinely preparing grass and shrubbery spaces.
His life was torn when his son Francis died tragically in a car crash in 1986, the devastation remaining with him.
Jimmy himself was struck with a stroke in 1995 which somewhat hindered his mobility, although he was able to retain his driving licence, allowing him to maintain some independence.
He became a regular member at the Chest, Heart and Stroke club each Friday in Dungannon, with his last visit just three weeks before his death.
He was a popular member of the club and was honoured with a surprise party this summer to mark his 90th birthday.
Jimmy had a strong faith and devotion to the daily rosary. He was blessed to have received regular visits from the Moy priests, something he took great comfort from.
He was admitted to hospital at the end of October and remained there until his peaceful passing on November 16.
The month’s mind Mass for Jimmy will take place in St John’s Church, Moy on Saturday December 15 at 6.30pm. He is survived by his wife, children, sister and wide family circle.
