Imagine the profound ache of losing a cherished family member whose life touched so many hearts – that's the raw reality we're facing today with the passing of John Madden. But here's where his story unfolds in ways that remind us of the enduring bonds of family and community, inviting us to reflect on the legacies we all leave behind. Don't miss the touching details of his journey that follow.
John Madden, once hailing from the vibrant Midwest Radio scene, resided at 6 McFibris, Pier Rd, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo, and previously called Manchester, UK, his home. He departed this world peacefully on December 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Mayo University Hospital – a moment of gentle closure that speaks to the strength of those who stood by him.
He was predeceased by his devoted mother, Bridie Madden (née Regan), his steadfast father, Sean Madden, and his dear sister, Ann Madden. John leaves behind his beloved children, Kelly Clarke (née Madden) and Sean Madden, who will carry his memory forward.
His absence will be deeply felt by his daughter, his son, his cherished Janet Madden, his granddaughter Mealla, his son-in-law Micheál Clarke, his daughter-in-law Roisín Madden (née Evans), as well as his nephew Jason and niece Helen. Beyond the immediate family, countless relatives and friends mourn this loss, each one touched by his warmth and presence.
May John's spirit find eternal peace. And this is the part most people miss – the quiet invitation to ponder how we honor those we've lost through small acts of remembrance.
The funeral procession will depart from his home on Saturday morning, December 27, heading to The Church of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven in Enniscrone for a Requiem Mass scheduled at 11:00am. Following the Mass, a Cremation Service will be held at McGowan’s Crematorium and Funeral Home in Collooney, Co. Sligo (Eircode F91 AKW5).
For those unable to attend in person, John's funeral Mass will be live streamed on www.churchtv.ie/enniscrone, ensuring his farewell can be shared far and wide.
Please respect that the house is private during this time.
In keeping with tradition, the family requests only family flowers, but if you'd like to contribute in another meaningful way, donations are welcome to the RNLI. You can arrange this through McGowan’s Funeral Home in Ballina or donate online at https://rnli.org/support-us/give-money/donate – a gesture that might just save lives in honor of John's compassionate spirit.
Feel free to leave a message or condolence for his grieving family below, offering the comfort of shared words.
But here's where it gets controversial: In an era when community ties can feel frayed, notices like this spark debate about how we mourn publicly versus privately. Does broadcasting a funeral online bridge gaps or dilute the intimacy? And what about donations to causes like the RNLI – is it a noble tribute, or does it shift focus from personal grief? These questions linger as we say goodbye to John. What do you think? Do you agree that sharing loss openly strengthens our connections, or should such moments remain more intimate? Share your thoughts in the comments – your perspective might just offer solace to others navigating their own farewells.