There is shock and sadness in the Inishowen area and beyond following the sudden death of Jim Quinn.
Michael Jim Quinn, of Rossbracken and formerly of Backhill Buncrana, died following a road accident in Tooban on Friday evening.
A local suicide prevention councillor, a fortune teller and a great Republican, he was well-known across many facets of local life.
He was a true ‘legend’ in the community and a great neighbour who will be dearly missed.
Condolences have been expressed to Jim’s heartbroken family following their tragic loss.
Buncrana-based Councillor Jack Murray said: “There’ll be manys a yarn told over the next few days about Jim Quinn, following his tragic and sudden passing.
“Jim was a gentleman, well known as an experienced expert at telling tall tales. Any time I met him he was always upbeat and happy – a great quality in any person. He was known by everyone locally and famous all over for his fortune telling.
“He was also a very passionate Irish republican and dropped everything at election time to knock every door in the Back Hill to ask his friends and neighbours to support Sinn Féin.
“I was very saddened to hear the news yesterday. My sincerest condolences to all his family and friends. He’ll be missed.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
A tribute from the Burt Residents Group said: “The sad passing of Jim Quinn from Backhill, Buncrana has evoked many memories from everyone who knew him. Jim loved his sport and often played football in Burt for several different teams. He also brought teams together for Summer Cup games such as this star studded side of his which he brought to Burt back in the late 80’s. ”
Deeply shocked and saddened by his loss are his wife Pauline, daughters Emma, Paula, Iris, Amanda and sons Derek and Steven, grandchildren and great-grandson.
Jim will be sorely missed by his brothers & sisters John, Patrick, Kathleen, Annette, Marie, Cindy and Martin; brothers & sisters-in-law, nieces & nephews, wider family circle and his many valued friends & neighbours.
He is predeceased by his parents Jimmy & Kathleen and his nephews Gavin Duffy & Darren Quinn.
Funeral arrangements will be confirmed later.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to the collision on the R238 in Burnfoot on the afternoon of Friday 14th July at approximately 4.30pm. Mr Quinn was driving his car when it struck a ditch. He was rushed to Letterkenny University Hospital, where he sadly passed away.
Anyone with any information in relation to the collision is asked to contact Buncrana Garda station on 074 932 0540, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.
