‘Full of life’ Jimmy (20) had been due to start a new job this week
YOUNG Jimmy Loughlin had been due to start a new job in Sligo town this week before his life was suddenly and so tragically cut short.
Jimmy. a native of Kilross, Ballintogher, had taken a year out from his Business Studies course at IT Sligo and was due to start the job in an office in Sligo yesterday (Monday). Jimmy had also part time work in the local McDonalds as well as a budding DJ career.
His local parish priest Fr Vincent Connaughton knew Jimmy and his family for years. He was the first born child of Michael and Paula and big brother to Grace, Rose and Kitty.
Fr Connaughton told The Sligo Champion that the Loughlin family from Kilross were still coming to terms with the shocking death of their beloved oldest child.
“It’s very difficult. It’s a terrible blow to them only having received the news on Saturday.
“But there’s great support from the community, everybody is rallying together. So many people are helpful in offering hospitality,” he said.
Jimmy’s remains were released yesterday by Sligo University Hospital to his family. He reposed at Fowley’s Funeral Home, Dromahair from 7pm-9.30pm yesterday (Monday) before being brought back to his family home to repose for two nights, strictly in private.
Jimmy’s funeral Mass will take place tomorrow ( Wednesday) at 12 noon in St. Theresa’s Church, Ballintogher. He will be laid to rest afterwards in Sooey Cemetery.
“Jimmy was a fantastic young man, full of life, youth. He had great plans for the future,” said Fr Connaughton.
“Everywhere Jimmy went he was loved. If you were in bad form he would put you in good form,” he said.
“He was never judgemental, very unassuming, always ready to help. He loved his style, always looking well. He was just such a great young man full of talent and ability,” he said. His family and friends meant the world to him. They’re a very close knit family. He loved his four grandparents in Ballintogher and England and had a wonderful circle of young friends,” he said.
“As the Gardaí said, it could be anybody’s son,” added Fr Connaughton.
Jimmy’s co-workers at McDonalds in Carraroe Retail Park were still “completely” in shock yesterday after they learnt the tragic news on Saturday.
Restaurant Manager Leo McNamara said: “He had a great since of humour and everyone loved working with him as he lifted their day with his fun personality.
“If you knew you were working with Jimmy you knew you would end up laughing regardless of what mood you were in. He was a very funny guy,” he told this newspaper.
McDonald’s Franchisee Richard McNamara added: “We are all shocked and saddened by the loss of Jimmy, he was a much loved member of our team. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and we are offering support to those who worked with him,” he said. McDonalds will close tomorrow from 11am as a mark of respect during Jimmy’s funeral Mass.