There was sadness across Letterkenny and beyond following the death on Christmas Day of well-known local character John McDermott.
John, of Ashlawn, and formerly of Ard O’Donnell, was a popular figure in the Cathedral Town.
He passed away at the Donegal Hospice following a long-term illness.
He was laid to rest at the family plot at Aughaninshin Cemetery following funeral mass at St Eunan’s Cathedral.
John was a well-known historian and visited many archaeological sites across Donegal over the years.
Donegal County Museum has posted a special tribute to John saying he was a great friend to all the staff there.
The post said “Over many years, John took hundreds of photographs of archaeological and historic sites across Donegal many of which have become part of the John McDermott Collection at Donegal County Museum.
“This was an extraordinary achievement as John could not drive, yet he still managed to get to many remote sites.
“He took great pride in his work, sometimes going back years later to get a better shot.
“He was part of our museum family and called into us often. He was very well-read and had a great knowledge of Donegal and Letterkenny history.
“Even during his long illness he would call in or ring to share with us some historical fact he had discovered.
“John was our friend and we will miss him.”
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