The death has occurred of Malcolm Smyth. He had Motor Neurone disease, which he bore and battled bravely. Always with that great smile of his.
Malcolm will always be remembered as being the perfect gentleman, ready to help out and for being so obliging.
Malcolm, like so many members of his family, was synonymous with music in the town. Malcolm was always in the middle of every show, panto, musical, concert, charity gig, either on the microphone or supply the microphone and PA, so that the show could go on.
Countless bands and generations of musicians will tell you that they owe their start to Malcolm who was always generous with equipment and gear so that others could play and perform.
For Malcolm though the abiding memory in people’s hearts around the Town and beyond will be his own band ‘Friend’s Together’ and their signature tune of the same name which signalled the finale to all their events.
Malcolm was one of a talented musical family from Marian Avenue who started playing music at a young age.
Neighbourhood pals fondly remember Malcolm performing every Sunday with the Larkins, from Scully’s wall as The Kit Kats, to the delight of young and old on the estate.
Malcolm, like other members of his family was steeped in music and not just with the showbands, as he was also a key figure in the success and continuity of St. Joseph’s Accordion Band, hardly ever missing a performance, a parade or a match up in the field.
He was among the core group from the Town band that fundraised and organised for new instruments and uniforms for the accordion band to take part and march at the head of the Laois contingent in the New York, St. Patrick’s Day Parade in 2004.
Malcolm lived at Bianconi Way on the Ridge Road in Portlaoise, where he passed away peacefully yesterday, February 9th, surrounded by his loving family.
Malcolm, beloved husband of Winnie and cherished father to Zoe, Alan, Sarah, Colin and Hannah, adoring grandfather to Saoirse and Luna.
Deeply regretted by his loving family, sisters Claire, Anne, Caroline and Edel, brothers Peter, George, Declan, David and Niall, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Reposing at his residence from 4pm on Sunday with rosary at 8pm. Removal on Monday morning to arrive at SS Peter and Paul’s church for 12 noon requiem Mass. Interment will follow afterwards in SS Peter and Paul’s Cemetery.
Family flowers only. Donations, if desired, to Motor Neurone Association.
SEE ALSO – Visiting the Midlands Prison Portlaoise was a life-changing experience
