John “Lack”O’Sullivan  -  a tribute

On the higher slopes of Adrigole,

O’erlooking Bantry Bay

John Lack, the boy we grew to love

First saw the light of day.

The sheep were grazing happily,

And all was quiet and calm,

In that tranquil little paradise

We know as Lackavane.

As a school-boy playing for Adrigole,

He quickly caught the eye.

His accuracy and football skills

Were a constant source of joy

And in Scoil Phobail Beara

His class of ‘94

Brought the first All-Ireland college cup

Back to his native shore.

For Adrigole and Beara

He was always to the fore

And time and time again ‘twas he

Who got that winning score.

On Sunday last with time near up

They called on him again

And sure enough his magic boot

Sent them through to meet Kishkeam.

No wonder then that all were stunned

The shocking news to hear

That John was called to his reward

In the prime of his career

Beara hearts were pierced right through

With sadness to the core.

The darling of the Barony

Was gone for evermore.

But his gentle spirit will live on

While Gaelic games are played,

His colleagues and his pupils

Remember him with pride,

God grant his sorrowing parents

The strength to realise

That ‘twas for loving souls like John,

He created Paradise.

                       Bernie O’Sullivan