Family reunite as youngest turns 80!
On July 26 last, John Boyle, of Cloughjordan - the youngest of seven siblings, a retired lorry driver from Tipperary County Council and former construction worker in London - hosted a long-awaited Boyle family reunion to celebrate his 80th Birthday. This milestone birthday party was held at the Abbey Court Hotel, Nenagh.
More than 50 family members and close relatives travelled from several parts of Ireland (i.e. Waterford, Westmeath, Cork, Kerry and Dublin) for the party, along with many more of John's relatives who live locally here in Tipp. Others even travelled from abroad to attend this special event; from as far away as Seattle and Bahrain, while other guests came from London.
Of course John's four brothers - Liam, Harry, Pat and Kieran - together with his only sister Nancy Madden were among those present. Other guests at the big birthday celebration were John’s sisters-in-law Margaret, Teresa and Margaret. John's first cousins, (the Haverty's and O'Brien’s), nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews were also among those celebrating with John and his siblings on the night.
A few of John’s nieces and nephews living in Australia, England and Scotland; with others holidaying abroad at the time, were sadly unable to attend. However, given it's significance, they still wanted to be part of this important celebration, so they sent some touching pre-recorded birthday messages for John, which were shared with everyone present on the night.
FAMILY REUNION
As well as being John’s milestone 80th birthday, there were other reasons to highlight why John arranged this rare and heart-warming special celebration.
For one, the birthday gathering marked an important reunion of all seven Boyle siblings, who now are all in their 80’s. In fact, the eldest brother, Liam, turns 90 in just a few months, in November! All of John’s siblings emigrated to work in London during their youth, so it was lovely for all to enjoy another ‘happy get together’.
It was an occasion for great reminiscing as old family photos were shared; which encompassed capturing their days working and socialising in London many years ago.
John’s elder brother, Michael, was unfortunately unable to fly in from his home in Spain. While it was planned to make contact with Michael via video call on the night, it was not possible to reach him at the time.
However, modern technology allowed John and all his siblings, to enjoy a more private virtual catch-up altogether with Michael the following morning. Even a photoshoot was arranged to capture a picture of all seven siblings reunited.
A fun and memorable time was enjoyed by all. Indeed, the party night was so good that it continued into the following day!
The celebration was filled with good food, music, dance and song (with a couple of songs shared by John's brother Kieran) - as well as plenty of chat, catch-ups and laughter!
On behalf of John, a special word of thanks to the Abbey Court Hotel for their exceptional hospitality and superb support, both in the run-up to the party, throughout the birthday night and following morning; to complement this wonderful event, so cherished by all.