I remember Joe when I was a boy in the Falls at my Granny Rosie (nee Maguire) Hughes house in Jude St in the 1960’s. Joe would come around from Baker St with his Grandad Dennis Maguire, my Grannies brother, and visit. Joe was always smiling and joking and even then had a presence when he walked into the room. His Grandad Dennis Maguire was a former Commander in the IRA and again had that Maguire presence. Not many people know Dennis’ other grandson and Joe’s 1st cousin was another Belfast Hero, World Champion Boxer Johnny Caldwell! My Mum Bridget (Joe’s deceased Mum’s cousin) passed away in March 2015, and she gave me old photos of Joe before she died, which my family treasured. We are so proud to be related to the Brave Joe McCann. RIP cousin!
