Walsall Council pays tribute to the late former Mayor, John O’Hare
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The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison, and the Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Mike Bird, have paid tribute to former Walsall Mayor, John O’Hare, following news of his passing.
Mr O’Hare, a member of the Conservative party, was first elected to Walsall Council on 6 October 1988, representing the Aldridge Central and South ward. He retired on 11 March 2011 after serving more than two decades in local government. This included roles as Leader of Walsall Council from 2007 to 2009, and as Mayor of Walsall in 2009–2010.
The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison, paid tribute to Mr O’Hare.
“ It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of a dear friend, former councillor John O’Hare. Though we hadn’t seen each other in many years, John remained close in my thoughts - remembered with great affection for the wisdom, warmth, and encouragement he so freely gave.
John was more than a respected colleague; he was a mentor and a steady influence during my early years in public life. As a former Leader of the Council and Mayor, he gave so much of himself to Walsall. His leadership was marked by compassion, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others.
John had a quiet strength that inspired confidence in those around him. He certainly did that for me. At times when I doubted myself, it was John who pushed me to be more confident, to step forward, to speak up, and to believe in my place within his cabinet. That encouragement has stayed with me ever since, shaping not only the way I work but also the way I support others.
Though time and distance separated us in recent years, the impact John made on our community - and on those of us lucky enough to know him - has never faded.
We give thanks for his life and legacy, and we hold his family and loved ones in our hearts at this difficult time. May he rest in peace. “
The Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Mike Bird, also paid tribute to Mr O'Hare.
“ The death of John O’Hare sees the end of the O’Hare dynasty in Walsall where John’s father Henry and his mother Dorothy along with his brother Peter all gave exceptional service as Walsall Councillors, with Dorothy and John serving as the Mayor of the borough on separate occasions.
One should never underestimate the value of such service, and John’s legacy and that of the O’Hare family is an integral part in Walsall’s history. Our thanks to them all and our condolences to the family at this sad time. “
During his time as a councillor, Mr O’Hare served in a number of committees and also served in significant roles outside of council, as a director of the Walsall Regeneration Company and the West Midlands Arts Trust. During his mayoral year, he worked hard to raise funds to support blind and deaf residents, a cause that was close to his heart.
