John O’Connell, who ran Cork's iconic TW Murray and Co on Patrick's St, dies
John O’Connell
The owner of a well-known Cork store that traded in everything from explosives to children’s toys over the years has died. He was 95.
John O’Connell, who ran TW Murray and Co on Cork’s St Patrick's Street into his 90s, died on February 14. He passed away peacefully at the Cork University Hospital "surrounded by his loving family".
Mr O'Connell had previously enjoyed success as a chartered accountant during his younger days. However, he took over TW Murray's following his father’s passing to keep the family tradition alive.
He will repose at Wilton Funeral Home on Friday from 5pm to 6pm. His requiem mass will take place at the Church of the Holy Spirit, Dennehy’s Cross, on Saturday at 10am.
Steeped in history, TW Murray and Co has been around since pre-famine times and survived an IRA raid in 1919 in which a number of arms and ammunition were stolen.
George O’Connell purchased the business in the 1920s, having managed it for many years. However, the premises has stood the test of time since its initial establishment in 1828.
The store continues to appeal to a variety of tastes, offering binoculars, lighters and fishing and shooting products, among other items.
Speaking to the in 2020, John O'Connell said he took over the shop as he wanted to save the jobs of the staff.
"One of the lads, Bob Draper, was working in the shop for 50 years at that stage [when George O'Connell died],” he said. “I was thinking of all of their jobs, so I said I’d carry it on.
“I got more and more interested so I did both, accountancy and the shop, for 20 years.”
He also spoke about the fishing supplies they sold, which most people would associate the shop with.
“It’s great to see four or five young fellas come in, with their packs of sandwiches, and they’re getting a few bits before heading off out fishing for the day," he said.
“It’s a great hobby for people, and it’s great to give kids an interest — something that’s going to give them an interest in nature and the environment that’ll last them all their lives."
On trading in Cork City, he said things had gotten quieter.
“The footfall is as nothing compared to even a couple of years ago. Now it has died out.
“Any city must have a main street, a centre that you’re drawn to. Forget the fact that we’re here ourselves — you must have a centre.
“When I was a child a neighbour had a car and we were brought in to see the centre of the city. That was a treat, but it was a treat because the centre of the city was the attraction.
“That has all changed. I think one of the biggest losses to Patrick Street has been the family businesses — Dowden’s, Lester’s, Fitzgerald’s, the Cudmores. All of those have gone.
“We wouldn’t be here still only for the loyalty of the customers. My daughters love coming in because they always say the customers are very nice."
John was the husband of Rita (Margaret) and the father of Maria (O’Shea), Gina (Murphy), George, Margo (Mulhall) and the late Valerie. He was also adored by his grandchildren Valerie, Shaun, Stephanie, Megan and Gavin. Leah, Rachael, Andrew, Jack and Rory. He had two siblings (the late Sheila and Ena).
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