Remembering the late Paddy McGuinness, from Waterford, who passed away age 95
The late Paddy McGuinness.
It is with great sadness that the McGuinness family announced the death of Patrick (Paddy) McGuinness, late of 448 St John's Park, and formerly Poleberry, who passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, aged 95.
Born on November 23, 1930, to Bridget and Michael McGuinness, WT Cosgrave was in the office of Taoiseach at the time, followed by Éamon de Valera for two terms. Paddy saw the office of Taoiseach change 15 times, as well as the establishment of the office of president in 1938, and the beginning and end of World War II.
He left school after primary, as was usual at the time, as secondary education was fee-paying, but his knowledge base was great and there was not a topic that he did not have an opinion on, from politicians to the Kardashians and, on occasion, Love Island.
Paddy married Bridie Halligan in the Holy Family Church on August 12, 1959, and they went on to have five children. They remained happily married for 43 years until her passing in 2003. He was a devoted family man and the phrase “grandad” was used by all, no matter the actual relationship.
But for most people he was known as Paddy on the Kenneally's bus - where he served as a bus conductor for many years. He loved nothing better than when someone would approach him and say, “do you remember me Paddy, from the buses?” In fairness, he would sometimes even be able to recall what stop he picked that person up from, and he had a “go to” response if he couldn’t remember, it was “I remember when you were that size”. He would hold his hand to hip height, but sure we were all his hip height at one stage or another, but it landed well and off they would go, happy that 'Paddy on the Bus’ remembered them.
For his tremendous age and frailty he was always active and a constant fixture for Saturday evening mass in the Sacred Heart Church until very recently.
Paddy is sadly missed by his children Joyce, David, Susan, Janet and Keith, and his grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family and friends.
His family would like to express their sincere gratitude to friends and all for their support and condolences during this time. A very special thank you to Fr Gerry Chestnut, who presided over the Requiem Mass at the Sacred Heart Church on January 14. Also, thanks to Thompson's Undertakers, UHW Ward 3, Clannad Care, Mowlam Healthcare and his personal carers for the exceptional care, kindness, dignity, and respect shown by them. It was a gift beyond measure to the family, for which they will be forever grateful.
Paddy’s reposing and removal were marked by a large attendance, reflecting the high esteem in which he was held.
He was buried in St Otteran's Cemetery, Ballinaneeshagh.
Paddy’s Month's Mind mass will be held at the Sacred Heart Church on Saturday, February 7, at 6.30pm mass.
