Ballymore celebrates 90th birthday of Comhaltas founding member Johnny Cleary
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The lively session taking place on the night.Image 2 of 5
Johnny Cleary with some members of his family.Image 3 of 5
Johnny being welcomed into the party.Image 4 of 5
Johnny with some of the members of the Ballymore Comhaltas Committee that were present on the night.Image 5 of 5
Johnny Cleary (founding member and former chairperson of Ballymore CCÉ) with current chairperson Daniel Boland and vice-chairperson Niamh Nally.Ballymore marked a special milestone on Saturday December 6 as family, friends and neighbours gathered in Jimmy Cassell’s Pub to celebrate the 90th birthday of one of the village’s most respected cultural figures, Johnny Cleary.
A founding member of Ballymore Comhaltas, Johnny has been central to the musical and community life of the area for decades.
The celebration brought together the Cleary family, local friends and many lifelong acquaintances from GAA and pitch and putt circles. Members of Ballymore Comhaltas attended in strong numbers, joined by relatives of other founding members who were keen to acknowledge the legacy shared by their families.
Musicians and friends from Castletown and Ballynacargy Comhaltas branches also travelled to be part of the occasion, contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable session that carried on throughout the evening. The gathering reflected the genuine respect held for Johnny across neighbouring communities.
Speakers noted his long-standing commitment to traditional music and his steady influence in encouraging participation across generations. Many credited him with helping to sustain the strong tradition of music in the village and for always welcoming newcomers into the fold.
The evening concluded with warm tributes and lively conversation, marking a significant birthday and the enduring impact of Johnny Cleary’s decades of involvement in the life of Ballymore.