Tributes were expressed at this month's sitting of Monaghan County Council following the death of Packie Jones.
The former Fine Gael councillor passed away last month on January 25th at the age of 89.
Packie Jones was the Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council between 1993 and 1994. According to current Cathaoirleach Sean Conlon, the late Packie Jones was "undoubtedly a popular figure" and was the heartbeat of his remote and rural community.
Fine Gael's David Maxwell described his former party colleague as an "advocate" for farming and community life.
He added that on behalf of the Fine Gael party in Co Monaghan, he wants to acknowledge the work Packie did down through the years for the betterment of the county. Cllr Aidan Campbell described him as a "gentleman, community man and a family man" adding that the turn-out of numbers at his funeral was a "great testament" to the character he was.
Independent councillor, Hughie McElvanney described him as a "straight and decent fella" who was one of the "best representatives this council ever had." Like majority of council representatives at yesterday's meeting, PJ O'Hanlon referred to the influence and contribution Packie Jones made to local GAA. "He was well thought of in the GAA community," explained Cllr O'Hanlon. "He was one decent fella and a passionate Fine Gael man. I would like to offer my severe sympathies to his family He was extremely well got and helpful to those who ever found themselves in a spot of bother."
