Cavan man who captured county through his lens
Paddy Ronaghan, of Moynehall, Cavan Town, died peacefully at his home on Saturday last, August 1.
Cavan has lost one of its finest storytellers with the passing of Paddy Ronaghan, a photographer whose camera chronicled the people, places and moments that shaped the county for more than half a century.
Mr Ronaghan, of Moynehall, Cavan Town, died peacefully at his home on Saturday last, August 1, surrounded by his loving family.
For generations of Cavan people, the late Mr Ronaghan was known as the man behind the lens- the photographer who understood that ordinary moments could become extraordinary memories. A photographer with a natural instinct, he documented everything from community gatherings and sporting occasions to historic events the magnitude of which reached far beyond.
Among his most significant work were photographs he took in the aftermath of the Belturbet bombing. Arriving shortly after the blast, he captured the devastation through a series of chilling images that were subsequently published internationally.
Mr Ronaghan’s fascination with photography was matched by his other lifelong love- that of aviation. A qualified pilot, he had a deep passion for flying and aircraft and was a familiar presence at flying clubs and associated events throughout the region- often marrying his two passions as one.
His love for recording life in Cavan too was reflected in his long association with The Anglo-Celt.
His popular feature, Ronaghan’s Rambles, brought readers on a pictorial journey, introducing them to characters and personalities who formed part of Cavan’s social fabric. Through those photographs and many others, Paddy captured the spirit of a community- from GAA figures such as referee Brian Crowe, to familiar local personalities including Peggy Brady of The Abbey Bar in Cavan Town and the late raconteur Mel Doherty.
His lifetime talent duly was recognised in 2018 when his exhibition 'Sharing Memories' was displayed at Johnston Central Library in Cavan Town. The collection featured photographs from across Cavan taken over many decades, highlighting iconic locations, local traditions and the people who made the county unique.
While his photographs remain as a lasting legacy, those who knew Paddy remember his warmth, humour, generosity and genuine interest in people.
Predeceased by his beloved son Colm and daughter-in-law Fiona, he is survived by his wife Kathleen, sons Mark (Celine) and Andrew, daughter Glenda (Jarlath), cherished grandchildren Ciara and Seán, sisters-in-law, especially Breda, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours, carers, former colleagues and his many friends.
His funeral arrangements include reposing at McMahon Funeral Home, Farnham Road, Cavan (H12 C821) on Tuesday evening from 5pm until 7pm. His remains leave his home in Moynehall on Wednesday morning at 11.30am, travelling to the Cathedral of Saints Patrick and Felim, Cavan, for Funeral Mass at 12 noon. Following Mass, burial will take place at St Brigid’s Cemetery, Killygarry, after committal prayers.
Family flowers only, please. Paddy’s Funeral Mass may be viewed live on www.cavantownparish.com/webcam. House private to family at all times.