Island mourns its adopted son, poet and bibliophile Jim Shean

ON Wednesday, June 29, the death, after a relatively short illness, occurred at the University Hospital,Tralee of James(Jim) Shean of Corobeg, who was 63.

Jim was born in East London in 1952 and spent his working life in publishing. He and his wife Maureen made Valentia Island their home in 2003, taking an active part in island life, with Jim being particularly interested in history and culture. He volunteered his services at the Valentia Heritage Centre and also helped, in association with Richard Williams, to raise funds for the Valentia Community Hospital, by way of a book sale, and was also involved in a committee which secured funding for the Valentia Island Resource Centre.

Up until recent times, he worked in association with Leo O’Shea of Ballinskelligs, to facilitate a START YOUR OWN BUSINESS course, which led to the development and opening of several businesses in the area.

His great passion in life was books, and on summer occasions Jim could be found in Ballinskelligs Country Market selling them.He loved poetry and even wrote poems from an early age and was also intrigued by the Blasket Island writers.He took an interest in a variety of sports, and always kept an eye on the fortunes of the Kerry footballers.

Jim was very proud of his Irish roots, which originated in Skibbereen, Co.Cork, and always liked to emphasise that his original surname back through the generations was Sheehan. His wife Maureen is the daughter of Paddy O’Shea of Dooks near Glenbeigh, who emigrated to England many years ago.Maureen’s mother Bridie hails from Park in rural Derry.

He was very appreciative of the good friends and neighbours in South Kerry who rendered such good support to his wife Maureen and himself throughout his illness.

The family would like to extend thanks to the Kerry University Hospital, particularly the Palliative Care Unit, as well as Fr. Larry Kelly,P.P of Cahirsiveen, together with the Valentia Island choir. Thanks also to Denis Daly Funeral Directors for their kind and professional services, to Martina for the beautiful flowers and Aisling,Steve and Anthony Sheehan of the Ring Lyne Tavern of Chapeltown.

Sincere sympathy is offered to his wife Maureen,sisters Catherine and Susan, nieces, nephew and extended family and friends, both in the U.K. and Kerry.Solás na bhFlaitheas dó

The late Jim Shean