Remembering Jim Hennessey
By Geny Caloisi
Last night’s Sing Along at the Ringway Community Centre carried a different kind of atmosphere.
These evenings, held every third Thursday of the month, are usually filled with light-hearted music, familiar tunes, and the simple joy of voices coming together. And that was still there. But woven through it all was something deeper. A sense of remembrance, of gratitude, of community holding one of its own.
We gathered to honour Jim Hennessey, who passed away on Monday 30th March.
Jim was one of those people who quietly became part of the fabric of a place. Warm, funny, and effortlessly musical, he had a beautiful voice that could lift a room. Many knew him from the Friday lunchtime café, where he was a regular presence, and others from local music hall events, where he performed alongside Dave the Magician. He brought joy wherever he went.
What stood out most last night were the memories people shared. Small moments, really. Laughter, songs, conversations. The kind of moments that might seem ordinary at the time, but later reveal their depth.
I found myself remembering how much I enjoyed seeing Jim at the Friday café. There was something easy about his presence. And every now and then, we would share a gentle dance. Nothing elaborate, just a simple, human moment that now feels even more precious.
The Sing Along became more than an event. It became a space to feel, to remember, and to celebrate a life that touched many others in quiet but meaningful ways.
Jim may no longer be with us in person, but the warmth he brought, the music he shared, and the connections he nurtured are still very much alive in this community.
And last night, you could feel that clearly in every song.
Jimmy, we love you and remember you.
If you would like to join, we host Music Night at The Ringway Centre every third Thursday of the month. Please see below for more details.
