A leading light in rallying and showband circles

Willie McCormick

Glenbeg, Swellan, Cavan Town

The death of William (Willie) McCormick, Glenbeg, Swellan, Cavan Town, on Monday August 3 at Cavan General Hospital was received with deep regret.

A native of Corboy, near Edgeworthstown, Co Longford, he was aged 84 years and was a recognised figure in a variety of business interests from motor rallying to music. In particular Willie was prominent in the showband scene, which was at its height in the 1960s and '70s. He was involved in the Irish music industry when the dance halls countrywide were thriving through record attendances.

Willie was at the centre of this phenomenon and made his mark as a manager of the then top bands, among them Dag Carroll and Brendan Hutchinson and The Navaks (1967-1970); Brendan Hutchinson and Lightning Express (1971-1973); Big Ivan’s Band from 1973-1977; Ian Corrigan & Country Style from 1974-1976 and Gloria & Mississippi from 1978-1981. At that time Willie mixed with many of the country’s most successful people in the music scene, among them Connie Lynch and Mick Clerkin. He was also closely associated with the Jimmy Magee All Stars who played their inaugural game in Ballyjamesduff on June 6, 1966.

Willie enjoyed a wide and varied career with particular interests in motor sport – he was a founder member of County Cavan Motor Club and served as the club's president for a time. He was winner of the club’s first ever treasure hunt in 1965. His interest in various aspects of motoring culminated in the purchase of a garage on Coleman Road in Cavan Town in the late 1970s.

Separately, Willie also took over the role of motor assessor. His pride and joy however, was his 1986 Ford Capri and it reputedly clocked the most miles in Cavan in its day.

A quiet and unassuming man, Willie was the heart and soul of everything he undertook. He is survived by his wife Eileen, daughter, Sylvia and son Enda. He was predeceased by his parents, James and Olive.

The funeral took place on Thursday from Cathedral of Ss Patrick and Felim to St. Brigid’s cemetery, Killygarry. A guard of honour was provided by members of Drumalee GFC and Co. Cavan Motor Club.