There was great sadness as society members and people in Longford learned of the death of Aidan O’Hara, Clonbalt Woods, Longford, on 11 June, after a long illness. Aidan and his wife, Joyce, moved to Longford in 2004 and quickly became involved in local life. Aidan was a committee member of the society and served as a vice-chairman for several years.
Aidan was an eminent broadcaster, writer and historian, with deep knowledge of the Irish language, music, folklore and local history. He gave several lectures and contributed articles to Teathbha. He championed the life and work of Padraic Colum and was a prime mover in the establishment of the annual Padraic Colum Gathering. An abiding interest of his was the Irish in North America. His work on the Irish community in Newfoundland for RTÉ is well-known. In February of this year, he fulfilled a long-held ambition by launching his book, entitled A Damn Yankee, am I? Thanks! Portraits of the Irish in the era of the American Civil War.
Our deepest sympathy to Joyce, their daughter, Katheen, sons Seán, Brian and Conor, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, six grandchildren and wider family.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.