‘One of life’s true gentlemen’ – warm tributes after sudden death of hugely popular county Kilkenny publican

‘A true gentleman’ was a phrase used by many to pay tribute to Inistioge publican Johnny O’Donnell, who passed away suddenly yesterday evening.

Johnny, known to most as the owner of O’Donnell’s (The Spot’s) on the village square, was a hugely popular figure, to his customers and anyone who met him down through the years.

His sad death comes after his younger brother Jimmy, who worked with him in the pub, passed just four years ago.

In his death notice, Johnny was described as a “loving brother of Danny, Helen, Maria and Catherine” who will be “greatly and sadly missed by his brother, sisters, sister-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and his many great friends”.

Many people paid their own moving tributes to the Insitioge publican on RIP.ie throughout the day.

One well-wisher said: “Johnny will always be remembered as a true gentleman. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”

Another commented: “Sincere sympathy to all the O’ Donnell family. Johnny was one of life’s true gentlemen.”

One couple said: “We have the fondest memories of the O’ Donnell family and Johnny will always be remembered as a true gentleman. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”

Another family summed up the local community’s reaction succinctly: “We were shocked and greatly saddened to hear the news of John’s sudden passing. John was truly a gentleman and when you crossed the threshold of O’Donnell’s Pub you were always assured of his warm welcome and firm handshake. Our heartfelt condolences to Danny, Ann, Maria, Catherine, Helen and the extended O’Donnell family on your devastating loss. Our prayers are with you all. May John Rest In Peace.”