Tributes pour in for 'well-loved' pensioner whose body was found after major search

Tributes have poured in for a "well-loved" pensioner whose body was found on Sunday evening.

The body of missing 73-year-old, John McSweeney, was found following a major search conducted by authorities and members of the community in Co Limerick and the surrounding areas. 

The pensioner had been missing from his home in Athea, Limerick, since the afternoon of Saturday, January 6.

Following the tragic news, tributes have poured in for John, who has been described as a "wonderful neighbour" and "one of life's real gentlemen". 

“Our heartfelt sympathy to Patrick Liam Martin Margaret Mary and extended Mc Sweeney family's on the sad passing of John Michael. He was a wonderful neighbour and a great friend. He always loved to have a good chat. He will be sadly missed from Knocknaclugga. Rest in peace, John Michael,” recalled someone in tribute.

Another tribute read: "Deepest sympathies to Patrick, Liam, Martin, Mary, Margaret and all the Sweeney family on the sad passing of our neighbour John Michael. One of life’s real gentlemen who was always up for a chat whenever we met at the forestry road. At peace now with his late Mom and Dad, may he rest in peace."

"Sincere sympathy to all your family on your very sad loss. John was a quiet man who moved among his community in his own very quiet way. As a family, you can never have any regrets. He was well-loved (you only have to look at photos). You searched long and hard and if sadly you did not get the outcome everyone wanted he can now be at peace with his mom and dad Rest in peace John," wrote someone else in tribute. 

Originally from Knocknaclugga in Athea, John was predeceased by his parents, William and Mary Anne. 

Deeply regretted by his family, brothers Paddy, Liam and Martin, sisters Margaret (Leahy) and Mary (Ahern), brother-in-law Timmy, sisters-in-law Noreen, Eileen and Bridget, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He will be Reposing at St Mary's Church, Carrickerry this Tuesday evening, from 6 to 8pm.

Requiem Mass on Wednesday at 11am. Burial afterwards in Calvary Cemetery.