Musical Society tribute: 'Rest easy our friend'

Athlone Musical Society has expressed its condolences to the family of the late Terry Jackson, whom it described as a “dear beloved friend”.

Terry, a member of a well-known Athlone family, passed away on Tuesday last.

The society said its members were saddened to learn of his untimely passing.

Terry joined the society in 1969 for the production of Oklahoma, and from then on took lead roles in many productions.

“Terry had it all on stage. A fine actor, light on his feet and a wonderful singing voice,” the society said.

He played the role of Alfred P Doolittle in My Fair Lady on three occasions, firstly in 1974, then 1983 and once again in 2009. His favourite role of all was Pontius Pilate "Jesus Christ Superstar". He played the role for the first time in 1984 and then again in 2003.

Terry served on committee also for many years and as both Vice Chair and Chairman.

The society added: “All through his 10 years of ill health he continued to love and support the society. He became an Honorary Life Member some years back and enjoyed attending opening night productions with this membership and catching up with all his musical friends. Terry sat proudly for the last time in the Dean Crowe Theatre on Monday 6th June where he enjoyed the society's award-winning performance of "All Shook Up".

It said it was particularly poignant that the society will stage Chess once more in 2023, as Terry memorably played the Mayor of Merano when the society staged the show in 2006.

“His kindness, curiosity, friendship and love and support of the society will never be forgotten,” the society said, before expressing its heartfelt condolences to his beautiful and dedicated daughter Catherine and his wonderful son Mark.

“Rest easy our friend.”

Predeceased by his beloved wife Maria and his infant children Terence and Carol and his sister Paula. Sadly missed by his son Mark and daughter Catherine, daughter-in-law Joanne, brothers Liam, Jimmy, Donal, Eamon & Phelim, sisters Maureen (Flynn), relatives, many friends and members of Athlone Musical Society.

He will repose at Flynn's Funeral Home, The Strand today, Thursday, from 5pm until 7pm. Funeral service will take place on Friday morning in Flynn's Funeral Home, The Strand at 11am followed by burial afterwards in Coosan Cemetery.

Terry's family are still very conscious of the fact that Covid is still present and would appreciate if social distancing, face covering and no hand-shaking took place during the funeral.