Tributes to former Councillor John
The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Tom MacSharry has paid tribute to the late John Sherlock , former county councillor who passed away on Saturday.
“John gave exemplary service throughout his career in public life, and over his term as Cathaoirleach he was universally respected for his professionalism and fairness.
“His experience and wisdom were a great resource to Sligo County Council during his time as a public representative,” said Cllr MacSharry.
The late Mr Sherlock, from Ballisodare, was first elected to Sligo County Council in 1991 representing the Ballymote electoral area, and had the honour of being elected Cathaoirleach in 1995.
He lost his seat in 1999 but regained it at the 2004 election before deciding to retire from public life in 2009.
Many tributes were paid to Mr Sherlock when he opted out of politics before the 2009 elections. He was praised for his commitment tot he people of Ballisodare and Collooney during his nearly two decades of service. He served on many committees during his service with the Council, and was always supportive of voluntary groups or local associations trying to enhance their communities.
“John’s friendly and outgoing nature made him popular with fellow Councillors and staff. He was always ‘ talking up’ Sligo and believed in the county and its people.
“People who served with John have been recalling his warm and generous nature, and the valued contribution he made to the major issues discussed in the Council Chamber.
“On my own behalf and on behalf of the elected members and staff I would like to convey my condolences to John’s wife Breedge and the Sherlock family,” said Cllr MacSharry.
On his last day in the council in May 2009, Mr Sherlock thanked the electorate and his family for their support over the years. He said it had been a privilege to represent the people of the Ballymote electoral area and he had always done his best for them.
“I was never too controversial, but I always did things the way I felt they should be done. As the song goes, ‘I did it my way’,” he added.
He passed away last Saturday at North West Hospice and is survived by his wife, Breedge, son Adrian, daughters Karen, Marie and Sinead.
Removal is today (Tuesday) to Saint Bridget’s Church, Corhownagh, Ballisodare, arriving for 11.30 Funeral Mass followed by burial in Saint Bridget’s Cemetery, Ballisodare.