The Mallow Sugar Factory community has lost one of its familiar faces of the sugar beet industry, with the passing of Joe Murray (Aghada Hall, Rostellan and Midleton Transport, late of Dunmanway) on October 18th, 2025.
Among the many tributes paid to Joe, one reads: “My deepest sympathy to Ann, Gus, Maura, and the Murray family. I have many memories of going to the Mallow Beet Factory back in the 80s and 90s, and what stands out most is that busy fleet of Midleton Transport. Rest in peace, Joe.”
Joe Murray’s life and work were closely tied to the rhythms of the Mallow Beet Factory, the country’s last remaining sugar processing plant. The Greencore-owned factory had been a cornerstone of local life for nearly eight decades until its closure in 2006.
Its shutdown marked the end of an era, bringing the lively hum of beet season and the daily sight of Midleton Transport’s busy fleet to a close. The site has since undergone extensive remediation, but memories of hard work and community spirit remain strong.
For many, Joe was synonymous with those busy beet seasons. Known as “the king of the beet seasons,” he led his team with a mix of professionalism, warmth, and integrity. It was recalled that all his drivers were gentlemen, and the fleet of Midleton Transport trucks was a familiar sight, hauling multiple loads each day to the factory throughout the height of the season.
Joe passed peacefully in the care of Oaklodge Nursing Home, Churchtown South.
Joe was beloved husband of Ann (née Healy), dear brother of Gus, and brother-in-law to Maura. He will also be sadly missed by his nephews David and his wife Mary, Noel and his wife Marguerite, grandniece Leah, grandnephews Evan, Rían, and Calum, Ann’s sisters Mai and Peggy, extended family, neighbours, and a wide circle of friends.
The Irish Sugar Factory Facebook group, with around 6,100 members, offers a nostalgic journey filled with memories and stories of a much missed industry that has been lost from the area.
