Margo O’Donnell, a beloved figure in Irish country music, has recently opened up about the deep loss of her dear friend, Big Tom McBride, the country music legend who passed away in April of 2018 at the age of 81, just three months after his wife, Rose. Margo, who has been a close friend and neighbor to the McBrides, spoke candidly about her relationship with the couple and the emotional void Big Tom’s passing has left in her life.
In an interview with RTE’s Today Show, Margo shared her personal connection with Big Tom and Rose, highlighting the special bond they shared. She revealed that when she moved to Monaghan, it was her friendship with the McBrides that made her feel at home. “I decided to stay here and then I was very very friendly with Tom and Rose McBride. We would spend days together every week, so I love it here. People are lovely and very friendly,” she recalled.
Margo went on to express how much she misses Big Tom, particularly after their time spent together working on his last CD. “I do actually miss Big Tom. I miss him a lot. The last CD that he was making, he asked me if I would help him with the songs, so we used to spend most days together until Rose passed away,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.
The passing of Rose in early 2018 had a profound effect on Big Tom. Margo spoke of how she had witnessed Rose’s declining health and how, despite her illness, Rose often expressed to Margo that she knew her time was near. Margo recalled, “I knew Rose was ill, and I think Rose, his wife, knew that she was dying because she said it to me many times.” After Rose’s death, Big Tom seemed unable to continue without her. Margo shared an emotional memory of a conversation with Brendan Grace and Dermot, Big Tom and Rose’s son, near a statue of Big Tom. “I remember him saying to me and to Dermot, Tom and Rose’s son, ‘Did your father die of a broken heart?’ And Dermot said, ‘Yes, he did.’ He couldn’t live without Rose.”
The pain of Big Tom’s loss still lingers for Margo. “I miss the two of them because I was friendly with both of them. There were special times, and I have those,” she said, reminiscing on the precious memories she shares with her late friends.
In the same interview, Margo also shared a personal milestone, celebrating her 70th birthday on February 6th. “I was 70 on the 6th of February. I stayed at home and got so many flowers and so many cards and everything. I felt very special, you know. I’m not a great one for partying, so I was quite happy to just stay here and happy that I was well,” she explained, reflecting on the love and affection she received on her special day.
Despite the sadness of losing close friends, Margo continues to cherish the memories she made with them and carries their legacy with her. Her reflections offer a glimpse into the depth of her friendships and the enduring bonds she shares with those who have touched her life.