Popular Dungannon balladeer John Mitchell laid to rest

DUNGANNON laid one of its favourite sons to rest on Wednesday with the passing of singer/songwriter John Mitchell.

Mr Mitchell (also fondly known as ‘Hop’) from Mullaghmore Park, Lisnahull died peacefully in Craigavon Hospital on Monday.

A well known and popular local figure he lived all his 89 years in Dungannon. For decades he played guitar and sang in local lounge bars.

He was resident singer during the 1960s in The Plough in Anne Street, during the 70s and 80s in McGraths in Irish Street as well as being a permanent fixture in the Moy Inn.

He wrote a number of popular ballads including ‘My Heart’s in Dungannon’ and his music can be accessed on YouTube with other songs such as ‘The Creggan Hare’ and ‘The Bard of Armagh’. During his singing career he also played with several bands including ‘Harmony Three’.

During the funeral service a photograph of his wedding to his late wife Rosaleen, an LP of his favourite songs and his guitar and was brought to the altar in the offertory procession. The service was concluded with the playing of ‘My Heart’s in Dungannon’ while his remains were borne from the church to the tune of ‘The Creggan Hare’.

Mr Mitchell was a former member of the Dungannon Clarkes GAA club committee and a passionate life-time supporter.

Paying tribute, former Clarkes Chairman and close friend Dick Cahalane said, “John was very popular at functions from the 1950s right through to the 1980s. He was born and bred in Dungannon and lived his whole life here. He was part of the fabric of the town. He was very well respected and a friend to everyone. John was a great singer and a great character.”

Regarding Mr Michell’s association with the Clarkes’ club, Mr Cahalane added, “He was a great supporter of the club through good times and bad and was absolutely delighted when they won the championship again two years ago. He was very humble and an absolute gentleman.

“John will be very sadly missed. Everyone at the club extends their sincerest sympathy to the Mitchell family.”

Requiem Mass was held at St Patrick’s Church followed by interment in Carland Road Cemetery.

Mr Mitchell was pre-deceased by his wife Rosaleen (Doris) and baby Patrick who died in infancy, and is survived by his children Jim, Patricia (Millar), Roisin (Harte), John, Yvonne (Quinn), Paula (O’Neill), Raymond and Shane, grandchildren, great grandchildren and a wide family circle.