Tributes paid to Nenagh 'crooner' and singer of international standard Joe Hackett

Tributes were paid to legendary Nenagh singer Joe Hackett at the October meeting of Nenagh Municipal District Council.

Mr Hackett, formerly of Pound Street, passed away earlier this month.

Leading the tributes, Cllr Hughie McGrath described Mr Hackett as a “great crooner” who played a great part in Nenagh’s life and in its community.

Recalling how Mr Hackett often joined Nenagh MINT Jazz band when it was formed in 1986, Cllr McGrath said that Joe was a singer of international standard.

 “When we'd have professional singers as guests and we’d call on Joe to sing, they’d hear him and say: ‘Where did he come from’?” said Cllr McGrath.

The councillor said Mr Hackett was a great character and it had been a privilege to have known him.

“He was often asked to sing and he never let anyone down,” he said.

Cllr MacGrath also recalled that, at one stage, a competition was held to elect a Mayor of Nenagh, and Mr Hackett won it.

“He used to joke that he was the first Mayor of Nenagh,” said Cllr McGrath.

Cllr John Carroll said that Mr Hackett had a “fabulous voice”.

“He had charisma, too, and was larger than life. He was an integral part of the character of the town,” he said.

Councillors asked to be associated with the remarks.