The late Jim Chonaill Ó Domhnaill leaves 'an extraordinary legacy across Donegal'

The late Jim Chonaill Ó Domhnaill has been remembered as “a man whose determination, compassion and relentless activism have left an extraordinary legacy across Donegal.”

Jim, of Ranafast, Annagry and originally of Knockastolar, Bunbeg, will be laid to rest on Friday. He is best remembered for his tireless work in providing a 'powerful and compassionate voice for cancer patients and their families throughout Donegal.'

Predeceased by his parents Conal and Biddy, daughter-in-law Fiona, sisters Bríd and Mary and brother Danny; sadly missed by his loving wife Ita, daughters Celine, Marguerita (Michael), son Connell, brother Connie, grandchildren Ciarán (Meabh),Martin, Róisin, Conor, James and Roseanne, great grandchildren; Eimear, Naoise and Doireann and extended family and friends.

Jim’s remains will repose at his home in Ranafast (F94 YKF4) on Wednesday from 1pm to 8pm and on Thursday from 12pm to 8pm. Rosary nightly at 8pm. House private after rosary and on the morning of the funeral.

The funeral Mass will take place on Friday in St Mary's Star of the Sea Church, Annagry at 11am, with burial afterwards in the new graveyard, Annagry. The Funeral Mass can be viewed live on Kieran Roarty Funeral Director's Facebook page and on the Annagry Parish webcam.

“Jim Chonaill Ó Domhnaill was a powerful and compassionate voice for cancer patients and their families throughout Donegal,” Donegal Cancer Flights and Services posted.

“A tireless advocate, he dedicated many years to highlighting the urgent need for improved cancer services in the north-west. Jim took part in deputations, protests, and high-level meetings with ministers, always speaking with clarity, courage, and deep conviction on behalf of those facing the hardest of journeys.

“As Chairperson of Donegal Cancer Flights and Services, Jim played a central role in ensuring vital support remained available to patients travelling for treatment. His commitment extended far beyond meetings and planning, Jim personally travelled the length and breadth of Donegal, collecting bucket donations in shops and pubs, raising funds, and keeping the issue of cancer care firmly in the public eye. His work was underpinned by a genuine care for people and a belief that no Cancer patient or family member should face cancer without support.

“All of us at Donegal Cancer Flights and Services extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to his beloved wife Ita, his son and daughters, and the entire Clann Uí Dhomhnaill. Jim will be greatly missed by all who knew him, worked with him, and benefited from his dedication. He leaves behind a profound legacy of service, advocacy, and kindness, one for which we are forever grateful.

Deputy Pearse Doherty added: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Chonaill Ó Domhnaill, a man whose determination, compassion and relentless activism have left an extraordinary legacy across Donegal and the wider North West.

“Jim was a tireless campaigner for cancer services, pouring his heart and energy into Donegal Action for Cancer Care, and then as a founding member of Co-operating for Cancer Care North West, and countless community efforts. He understood, long before many in power listened, that people in Donegal deserved timely access to vital treatment, closer to home, with dignity and support. And he never stopped fighting to make that a reality.

“Through his position as chairperson of Donegal Cancer Flights and Services, Jim was a driving force who helped remove barriers for countless patients and their families at one of the most frightening and vulnerable times in their lives. His work quite literally changed the lives of people across our county - bringing better health outcomes, easing enormous burdens, and ensuring that no one had to face their journey alone.

“Jim’s legacy will stand for generations. We owe him an immense debt of gratitude for all he achieved, and for the compassion, courage and commitment he showed every single day of his campaigning life. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

Pat the Cope Gallagher said: "It is with deep sorrow that I pay tribute to Jim Chonaill Ó Dónaill, a man of unwavering dedication and a loyal friend. In 2005, Jim became the PRO for Donegal Action for Cancer Care, marking the beginning of two decades of dedicated advocacy for cancer patients in the North West.

"He later became Chairman of Co-operating for Cancer Care NorthWest, where he played a leading role in championing improved cancer services for the region.

"Jim was instrumental in the successful campaign for a permanent breast surgeon in Letterkenny. He then turned his focus to securing cross-border radiotherapy services at Altnagelvin—an effort that ultimately succeeded, supported by significant investment from the Irish Government for both the building and the delivery of services. He continued throughout his life to advocate tirelessly for the development and expansion of cancer services.

"His work brought him many times to Dublin and to Stormont, where he met with ministers and decision-makers to ensure the needs of cancer patients were heard. On a personal note, I had a long relationship with Jim throughout my entire political career. He canvassed with me across Donegal and Connaught/Ulster. He was a true ambassador for Donegal. My deepest sympathy to his wife Ita and to all his family."