The late Sean McGee: Onóir’s ‘fifth member’ and ‘the most gentle and kind person’

Tributes have been paid to the late Sean McGee from Ballintra, who was described as a “fifth member” of Onóir. 

Sean was the father of Diarmaid, who, alongside Tom McHugh, Declan Gaughan and Deane Connaghan, forms the south Donegal band Onóir. Sean took over as manager of the band as their popularity soared.  He had spent his working life as an HR manager for the Magee Company and later as a well-respected therapist.

“After a while of thinking and brainstorming, we had the thought that the perfect man for the job was right under our noses,” Onóir said. “Sean had no experience in entertainment management, but we knew with his organisation and people skills that he was the perfect option for us and by God, were we right! He took to the job like a duck to water!

“Except for the first four shows, Sean has booked every show that you’ve seen Onóir play to date, organised all of our advertising and administration and built invaluable relationships with venues and promoters.

“We are very certain to say that Onóir would not be where we are today if it weren’t for Sean McGee. His work with us is just a fraction of the positive marks that this man has left on people’s lives and the community he lived in. He genuinely was the most gentle and kind person that you could meet.

“He had a very sharp wit that would leave you in stitches laughing. To Charlotte, Shauna, Diarmaid and baby Aisling, you are in our deepest thoughts at this time. Just know that we will keep this ship afloat and do our very best to make Sean proud! R.I.P. Sean, we will certainly miss you, big man.”

Sean passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his parents, John and Philomena (nee Ward).

He will be dearly missed by his soulmate Charlotte (nee McCrea), his beloved children Shauna (Pierre) and Diarmaid (Siobhán). He will be fondly remembered by his sister-in-law, Valerie (Jackie), his nieces, Kiara, Donna and Amy, his nephews, Clifford, James and Rory, his cousin Carol and his grand-nephews, Marcus and Conall, his beautiful granddaughter, Aisling and cherished brother to his sisters, Anne-Marie (Jim) and Caroline. 

Sean’s funeral took place on Tuesday in St Brigid's Church, Ballintra, followed by the burial afterwards in the adjoining graveyard.