'A heartbreaking loss' - Tributes to 'one in a million' Castlebar man after untimely death

Tributes have flooded in following the untimely death of Castlebar native Justin Guthrie on Monday.

Justin Guthrie, from Maple Lawn, Fr. Meehan Place, Castlebar (formerly of Mc Hale Road, Castlebar) unexpectedly passed after a short illness in Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.

Justin, who worked in the Castlebar Credit Union, is fondly remembered by all in the community who knew him, with many leaving heartfelt condolences.

Justin was also a "beloved" member of Castlebar Pantomime, who said "to know Justin was to love Justin, he would light up a room with his laughter and smile."

In an emotional tribute on Facebook, the pantomime group wrote: "Justin is the epitome of Castlebar Pantomime. In the early 90’s he joined the Junior Chorus and since then he has been in the Senior Chorus, a Committee member and most recently Back Stage.

"This was his shining role, where he put us all through our paces with his side stage antics in an effort to… you guessed it… make us all laugh, because that’s who Justin was.

"Justin, you will be deeply missed by everyone who got the chance to know you, we will remember you, your infectious smile, your jokes, your costumes and water guns side stage forever!

"For now, we say goodbye to you, our brother, our friend."

Justin is deeply regretted by his heartbroken Mother Lily, as well as siblings Jason, Robert Paul, Deirdre and Caroline, sisters-in-law Sharon and Martina, nephew Harry, niece Sienna, aunts Ann Corley and Ann Kelly, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends, including his work colleagues in the Credit Union, Castlebar.

Justin is predeceased by his father Mickey and his sister Elaine.

The Castlebar native was remembered by many as "a gentleman who was always a pleasure to meet in the Credit Union".

One condolence described Justin as "one in a million that's for sure. Life can be so cruel. May Justin's gentle and kind soul rest in peace."

A former GMIT college friend and roommate said: "I shared a house with Justin, he always brought cheer to the house with his infections laugh".

Another condolence from a representative of the Credit Union read: "Justin was a highly respected and popular member of First Choice C.U. and will be greatly missed by all his work colleagues, neighbours and friends".

Justin will repose at his Mother's residence, 44 Mc Hale Road, Castlebar today (Tuesday 16th July) from 5pm- 7.30pm.

Removal will take place on Wednesday morning at 12.45pm for Requiem Mass at 2pm in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar, (via Fr. Meehan Place and Main Street).

Justin will be laid to rest afterwards in Castlebar New Cemetery.

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