The Donegal Kid loses his fight
Thursday 26th August 2010

Paddy was a very likeable wee guy who had a long association

with the Grand Ole Opry. He has been a member of the Opry for a number of years and also served on the committee for some of this time.

His other love was “The Glasgow Gunslingers” where he won many trophies for the fast draw competitions.  He took part in and helped organise some of the Gala Days and raised lots of money for various charities over the years.

 The Donegal Kid was always one of the first cowboys to welcome visitors to the Opry and will be fondly remembered by many wearing his trademark green and black shamrock “cowboy” shirt.

Our thoughts are with his wife Maureen and all the friends and family he leaves behind.

Carol Cooney

THE KID FROM DONEGAL
a poem by Willie Downie

After all his suffering
Our friend has found relief
He could not know his passing
Would unite us all in grief 

He came to us from across the sea
With his charming smile and poise
He soon became Gun Marshal
There could be no better choice

He held this post for many years
And did so with repute
One thing I have to thank him for
He taught me how to shoot 

It’s sad to see a pal like Pat
Depart this world so soon
I think we’ll all remember him
When we hear an Irish tune 

Nothing could have saved our friend
No treatment, pill nor potion
But in the end, we must commend
His loving wife’s devotion 

The Opry Club has lost a son
Whose like we can’t replace
Yet, he will still be present
When the Trilogy takes place

 We’ll see his shamrock-covered shirt
That only he could wear
And when we start to fold the flag
Yes, Paddy will be there

 So thank you for attending
And answering the call
To say a final sad farewell
To the Kid from Donegal

Willie Downie, aka Big D