Packie rang me a couple of hours ago with the news, and we are both devastated. Strangely, Johnny popped into my mind this morning for no clear reason as I stood in the kitchen. The last time I saw him was when he and Joyce were staying here, and a happy final memory it is, too. I'm so glad I got to hear him once more, doing what he loved best - singing (at a gig in Cobh), not just shantys but all sorts of music. It was a wonderful visit, and I was always so sure there'd be another, a Next Time just around the corner.

He was a champion singer, a champion cuddler, a champion laugher, and a champion friend. Goodbye big fella. We'll sure miss you. You and Matt keep the bass line going in the Heavenly choir, ya hear?

Packie & Bonnie