‘John along with Denise made The Reel Inn a home and a safe place for music’

Tributes have been flooding in following the death of musician and former publican John McMenamin.

John and his wife Denise formerly owned the Reel Inn in Donegal Town, developing it into a leading traditional and folk music destination which was hugely popular for locals and visitors alike.

News of John’s death on March 29 has been met with widespread shock and sadness, particularly in the south Donegal area. 

A notice published by Gallagher Funeral Directors reads: “The death has occurred of John Rodgey McMenamin, Castleogary, Inver and formerly of Aghyaran.

“He was dearly loved and will be sadly missed by his wife Denise, his four sons Paul (Gráinne), Stephen, Benny (Edel), Denis (Enya), his three step-daughters Shannon (Shane), Rachel and Ciara (Paul), his beautiful grandchildren Amy (Jamie), Shea, Séan, Kian, Conor and Riley.”

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Among those to pay tribute are the current owners of the Reel Inn who took to social media to say: “We were deeply shocked and truly heartbroken to hear of the tragic passing this morning of the previous owner of The Reel Inn, John Rodgey McMenamin.

“John was someone who meant so much to so many, and his presence will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. The memories, kindness and warmth he shared with the community will never be forgotten. 

“Through his hard work, vision and character he created a place that became the heart of many great memories, friendships and nights in The Reel Inn.

“Our deepest and most sincere condolences go out to his beloved wife Denise, his sons, daughters and his cherished grandchildren during this incredibly difficult time.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all his family and friends. May he rest in eternal peace.”

Founder of Scoil Rince Tir Chonaill Sarah Gillespie and her family had very close ties with John, Denise and the Reel Inn team, having danced there regularly during the couple’s tenure. 

Sarah paid a heartfelt tribute to John, saying: “There are some people who become such a constant in your life, you never quite imagine a world without them. John was one of those people.

“For so many years, he gave us a place that felt like home, a place where music, dancing, laughter and memories lived side by side. But more than that, he gave us something far greater than a venue, he gave us his quiet support, his constant belief in us, and his presence.

“John didn’t need to say much. You always knew where you stood with him. You felt it in the way he looked at you, in the way he welcomed you, and in the way he made every one of us feel like we belonged.

“He was a giant in every sense of the word; steady, kind, and deeply respected. Someone who made you feel safe just by being there.

“I will always be grateful for the memories, for the music, and for the kindness he showed not just to me, Hazel, Ruth and Katie but to every one of our dancers who walked through his doors after us.

“Our hearts are truly broken today, but our thoughts are especially with our beloved Denise, whose loss is beyond words.

“Thinking of Denise, Denis, the girls and all of John’s family at this very sad time.

“Rest easy, John. You will never be forgotten.”

Musician, music teacher and music shop owner Kevin O’Donnell added his voice to the outpouring of tributes.

He said: “We are deeply saddened here at O’Donnells music shop to learn of the passing of  local box player and good friend John Rodgey McMenamin. His legacy with traditional music in Donegal Town will live on for years from the wonderful traditional hub he created which was The Reel Inn bar with Denise for 20 years.

“I have very fond memories when the journey started in the old Scotsman's bar before the Reel Inn, when I was there most nights as a young fella accompanying John on guitar as I did numerous times throughout the years in the Reel Inn.

“Through him I met some of Ireland’s top musicians over the years. It was common to walk into the bar and find any of Ireland’s foremost box players inside. 

“He will be sorely missed by all the music community in the locality and further afield. 

“An absolute gentleman, with great humour and wit and could spin some yarns for sure and just loved the craic, who I have the best of memories.

Condolences to Denise, the boys and girls.  Rip John.  Play a tune with master Burke now.

“Ar dheis De a raibh n-anam.”

Musician and former Reel Inn employee Aisling Meehan credits John for his encouragement on her path to performing.

She said: “It was with great sadness today I learnt about the loss of a dear friend John. 

“I started working behind the bar and then John encouraged me to start gigging. The support and encouragement he showed me with my music played a major role in getting me to where I am today. 

“His few words, his warmth and humour always left me laughing. 

“John along with Denise made The Reel Inn a home and a safe place for music for myself and many more like me. And for that I will forever be grateful. 

“My thoughts and prayers are with Denise and all the family at this difficult time. 

“Taken far too soon. Rest easy Boss Man.”

Here is a flavour of the outpouring of tributes and condolences that have been posted on social media:

“So very sorry to hear this. John was always so welcoming any time we visited the Reel Inn. Sincere condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren and his many close friends. May he rest in peace.” - Maelaoisa Harte

“Condolences to Denise and all the family John was a gentleman and a great neighbour, rest in peace.” - Martin O’Shea

“Very sad to hear. John was the salt of the earth and very welcoming to me and my son also when we visited the Reel Inn from Scotland. All my love to Denise and the family.” - Mairi Mac Intosh

“Very saddened to hear this news. Sincere condolences to all his family. He did so much for the music and will be missed.” - Gerard McGranaghan

“Such sad news. John was a great character and a great neighbour in Bridge Street for many years. Condolences to Denise and the entire family.” - George Henderson

“So sorry to read this - great man, a visit to Donegal Town was not complete until we had a drink in The Reel and a chat with John. Sending condolences to all his loved ones.” - Joanne McGrory Yarrow

“Many a great night had in the Reel Inn. A lovely man with an incredible talent. Thinking of you all.” - Karen Murray

“So sorry to hear this very sad news about John. He was a lovely businessman and a brilliant musician. Deepest sympathy to Denise and to both families. May John rest in peace.” - Marie Brogan

“Deepest sympathies to Denise and family, I hope they have the biggest Trad session for you up above to welcome you John. Sending much love and prayers to all of John’s family and friends. May your gentle soul rest in peace.” - Aisling McGowan Hannah