'Our hearts are broken': Ireland's oldest tango dancer dies in Waterford aged 104
Has At Mcmanus Of 104 Jim The Age Died
Ireland’s oldest tango dancer has died at the age of 104.
James “Jim” McManus from Waterford said the secret to his long life was “eating right, being positive and dancing”.
He made international headlines just five years ago when he competed in a world championships in Argentina. He was believed to be the oldest person to ever take part.
Sadly, the Second World War veteran died on Saturday while holding the hand of his daughter Helena.
Speaking to the , his friend, Tara Whelan from Waterford Tango said the community was “heartbroken”.
“He had so much love for his daughter, and she had so much love for him,” she said. “They idolised each other, she lives in Cork and is completely heartbroken.
“He was a terrific person, health wise, it was incredible, the longevity and dancing and driving up until the end, that is huge.
“He faced any problems life brought head on and he had such a positive essence. We can all learn from him and his way.”
Jim chose to live independently up until a month ago in Waterford and was still driving and attending his weekly dance classes.
He had hoped to compete in another tango world championship until the covid pandemic hit.
In an interview during lockdown, he said: “I will be at the first dance competition that opens again, I am ready and waiting.
“I just want to get back out there onto the dance floor. I will be back as soon as there is a dance on. I will be there I don’t care where it is.
“I have been watching a lot of videos on the laptop, I get up and do a little dance on my own if I like it, to keep me in practice."
He said dancing was “the only reason” he had lived such a long and extraordinary life.
Jim was born on January 5, 1920, in Scotland but spent many summers in Ireland as a boy as his father was from Fermanagh and his mother was from Sligo.
He had travelled all over the world with the British Navy, eventually settling in Ireland.
He said, “I consider myself Irish. I am in Waterford for a long time, this is my home. I have a great support here.
“I feel alright, it is a state of mind. But you have got to look after yourself. Avoid junk food, no junk food, plenty of vegetables, less meat more veg. I drink loads of liquids, fruit juices, and water."
Mr McManus will be reposing at Drohan’s Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Friday, March 15, from 10am to 12pm.
A cremation service will take place on Friday, March 15, at 2pm at the Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy, Co Cork.