Passing of prominent son of Athlone

The death has occurred of prominent and popular local man Noel Henry.

Noel passed away today, Wednesday, at his home in Hillquarter, Coosan, Athlone, in his 91st year.

A native of St Kieran's Terrace, Athlone, the late Mr Henry was managing director of the well-known transport firm, Midland Bus Company, for decades.

The youngest of nine children born to Bridget and Jimmy Henry, he grew up in St Kieran's Terrace, and attended Marist National School and the local technical school.

Later he qualified as a mechanic, working for a while in Gill's garage in Irishtown, Athlone.

In 1961, he established the popular Midland Bus Company, which for many years had its base on Gracepark Road.

The late Mr Henry held an abiding interest in politics, and contested the 1960 local elections for Fine Gael.

Music was also a huge part of his life, and at various stages he hosted programmes for Midlands Radio 3 and Athlone Community Radio. He was also heavily involved in the Athlone Gramophone Society, was a John McCormack aficionado, and the owner of a fine collection of original music by Glen Miller.

Predeceased by his brothers and sisters, he is sadly missed by his loving wife Angela, his daughters Nuala, Edel & Lelia, sons Brendan & Aidan, sister Betty (Georgia, USA), sons-in-law Jerry & Stephen, daughters-in-law Margaret & Stephanie, grandchildren Catherine, David, Bryan, Colm, Conor and Wasini, great grandson Killian, nephews, nieces, in-laws, relatives, neighbours and many friends.

Reposing at Flynn's Funeral Home, The Strand on Thursday evening from 6pm until 8pm. Requiem Mass on Friday in Our Lady's Queen of Peace, Coosan Church at 12 noon followed by burial afterwards in Coosan Cemetery.

Those who wish to view the live stream of Noel's Funeral Mass, can do so here:

https://www.churchservices.tv/coosan