Tributes paid to the late Joe Meade, a tireless advocate for Cork city Men's Shed

Tributes have poured in for secretary of Mayfield Men’s Shed Joe Meade, who passed away last week, describing him as “a gentleman” and a tireless advocate for his community.

Mr Meade, of Dillon’s Cross, passed away on December 28, “peacefully after a short illness bravely borne surrounded by his family, in the wonderful and exceptional care of the staff at the Cork University Hospital”, his loved ones shared.

He is survived by his wife Betty (née Lillis) and son Brendan, and they added that he “will be sadly missed by extended family, neighbours, and a large circle of friends in Mayfield Men’s Shed”.

Mr Meade’s removal took place at Keohane’s Funeral Home, Old Youghal Road on Tuesday, December 30. Funeral Mass was on New Year’s Eve at The Holy Family Church, Military Hill, followed by cremation at The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy.

Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North-Central Pádraig O’Sullivan described Mr Meade as “a gentleman”, saying that he worked incredibly hard for his local area. “Condolences to all in the Men’s Shed and to Joe’s family.,” he said.

Gentleman

Fianna Fáil councillor Margaret McDonnell said: “I was very sad to hear that Joe had passed away. Joe was always a gentleman to deal with every time I met him. He was always very welcoming and grateful for any help I gave him.

“He did a huge amount of work for the Mayfield Men’s Shed and he will be missed by everyone in the Mayfield Community. Condolences to his wife Betty and his son Brendan.”

Fine Gael councillor Joe Kavanagh told The Echo: “Joe was an integral part of The Mayfield Men’s Shed and especially in the setting up of this excellent organisation some years ago. He will be sadly missed by so many in our local community.

“My deepest sympathy to Joe’s family, his close circle of friends, of which there are many, and of course all at Mayfield Men’s Shed. May he rest in peace.”

Tim Glavin of Glanmire Men’s Shed shared a tribute on social media, saying that Mr Meade “was very supportive to other sheds with advice and support.”

“Condolences from all at Glanmire Men’s Shed to his family and to Mayfield Men’s Shed. Suahneas síoraí dá anam.”

Great friend

The staff of Mayfield Community Adult Learning Programme said: “Our thoughts are with all who mourn the loss of Joe, especially his wife and son. Thoughts are also with the Mayfield Men’s Shed who have lost a great friend and dedicated member. 

"May all the memories you have bring you comfort in times ahead. Joe completed several courses with CALP through the years and was always eager to learn new things.”

Mr Meade sent frequent contributions about Mayfield Men’s Shed to The Echo for the Mayfield page, including photographs and details of the group’s trips to visit the Áras and the Dáil in Dublin, and their singing excursions and woodwork for their local community. His handwritten cards of thanks and his friendly manner were always appreciated by The Echo team.