As most people in the community will know, one of the great characters of Stratton Audley, John O’Neill, died suddenly during the early hours of last Saturday morning. He had suffered a stroke on Thursday. This has come as a great shock to many residents. He will be sadly missed.
John’s story is a long and fascinating one. Because there is so much to say, the family has set up an email address where people can send memories, including photographs of John:
johnoneillcondolences@gmail.com
John was born in Tipperary town in 1947. He moved to England in the mid-1960s to start out on a career in the City that was to be both enterprising and successful.
John had a long association with London Irish rugby club, both as a player and supporter. When his playing days were over, he remained involved, helping to put the club on a commercial footing when the game turned professional.
He settled with his family in Stratton Audley in the mid-1980s when he bought the Hall and Hall Farm, which allowed him to develop his passion for hunting.
He worked tirelessly on behalf of the Bicester Hunt with Whaddon Chase, serving as Hunt Master and Chairman for many years. In parallel, he developed a formidable reputation as a racehorse owner, breeder and trainer.
John’s physical presence was matched by his larger-than-life convivial personality. All those privileged to share his company know this only too well.
Our condolences to his family and friends, including his partner Dillie, son Malachy, daughters Ciara and Ferga, and his brother Finbarr.
The funeral is confirmed for 12 noon on 1st September at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Bicester, then afterwards at the Red Lion for the wake. The family ask for no flowers, but donations, if desired, to The Injured Jockeys Fund and The Irish Youth Foundation.
