Born in June 1919 John has experienced many changes in life over the past 100 years; experiencing the excitement of the first man landing on the moon to living through the Second World War and seeing the introduction of colour TV were just among some of life’s memorable moments for the local man. 

John, the youngest son of James and Abigail, took over the family farm at just 14 years of age following the passing of his father. 

He spent his life working on the farm with his family saying, “He wore out spades digging miles of drains and stubbing scrub land.” 

John married his wife Edith in September 1948 and last year they celebrated 70 years together. 

John remarked that on many occasions, “I told her on a Monday morning I loved her and showed her how much by working hard the remainder of the week.”

From farming to turning his hand to vegetable growing John remained motivated to keep cultivating a great garden up until about five years ago, growing cabbage, turnips, onions, beetroot, carrots, parsnips, peas and potatoes. 

A retired member of the security forces, John  had also many other interests. 

He loves music and is one of the inaugural and founding members of Maguiresbridge Silver Band. 

The band came along to John’s birthday party where they played a variety of his favourite pieces. 

A spokesman for the band said, “In 1948 Johnny along with others became a founder member of Maguiresbridge Silver Band and we thank him for his contribution, dedication and hard work to all band life, and for the wonderful legacy he has given to us.”

His wife Edith and family expressed their thanks to all who had sent John good wishes on the occasion of his birthday.