Born into this world weighing no more than a large loaf of bread, Armagh’s Jimmy McCusker, proved day-in-and-day-out that strength came from within.
His birthday was significant. He was born on New Year’s Day in 1962. The first baby to grace the maternity ward in Lurgan Hospital that year.
And despite his very low birth weight of just two pounds, Jimmy immediately showed a “quiet strength” that carried him throughout his life.
He grew up in Druids Villas in the city, living a “full and active life” with many hobbies and passions.
His daughter Ciara said he was involved with “motorbikes, fishing, music, and the guitar”, the latter which was “never too far from his hand!”
Naturally, when he took up the stringed instrument, everyone around was treated to a little melody or two. It was his joy to sing and pluck the strings – especially in prayer groups across the country. For one of his greatest passions was his faith.
Speaking to Armagh I, Ciara described him as a “holy” man. He was inherently kind and endeavoured to help others at all times.
Prior to his death, Jimmy has remained sober for an outstanding 30 years. He used his own sobriety to “support and guide countless people through AA and prayer, always offering encouragement, understanding, and hope”, she said.
His faith gave him great strength, especially in his final days.
Sadly, Jimmy lost his fight with illness on July 13, 2026 after seven long – but comfortable – months in hospital.
That comfort was thanks to the compassionate staff of Ward 2 North in Craigavon Area Hospital. Ciara said no one ever expected Jimmy to be in hospital for that length of time, it was “unprecendented”.
But the staff there became almost like an extended family. They cared for him with such “kindness and humanity” that they all inevitably became friends. When he passed away, several of the nurses and a consultant even showed at his wake and funeral to express their sincerest condolences.
It’s all of these gestures of warmth that Jimmy’s family will never forget – and now sincerely wish to repay.
“He faced illness with incredible courage, never complaining, and smiling right until the end,” said Ciara. “Over the last 7 months of his life, the team on Ward 2 North in Craigavon cared for Jimmy with such compassion, dignity, and kindness.
“They went above and beyond throughout his lengthy stay, and our family was deeply moved when the team from 2 North attended Jimmy’s wake and funeral. They treated him like one of their own, and we will be forever grateful for the support they showed not only to him, but to all of us.”
So now, a team of ten will climb Croagh Patrick on September 12, to raise funds for Ward 2 North in Jimmy’s memory.
Ciara said part of their plan includes purchasing a new coffee machine and some “comforts” for the family room on the ward.
“It just needs a few things to make it a little bit more comfortable and homely for people visiting,” she said. “The more we raise, the more we can do!”
Already, what started with a humble £500 target has spilled over to just shy of £1,200 at the time of writing.
Ciara joked: “I had no idea people would be so generous. I have been blown away. But I am regretting making the agreement that if we reached the £2,000 mark, we would walk it barefoot!”
She says her beloved daddy would have “loved” the idea – something that many endure in penitence. But, it remains to be seen whether the troupe will be bold enough to forgo the shoes and socks!
Nonetheless, whether booted or bare, Ciara says, “every step we take is for him.
“This is our way of saying thank you, and of honouring a life filled with love, faith, and quiet strength. Thank you so much for your support. It truly means everything to us.”
You can make a contribution to the family’s fundraiser in Jimmy’s memory here.
