RIP: Tributes paid following the passing of the father of Tipperary TD

Tributes have been paid to Tom Kelly, father of local TD Alan Kelly and businessman Declan Kelly, following his passing on Sunday December 8.

Thomas Kelly (Tom), Castletown, Portroe, Nenagh, Co.Tipperary, passed away peacefully on 8th December, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Beloved husband of Ann (Nan) (nee McCarthy). Adored father of sons Declan and Alan. Dearly missed by his daughters-in-law Regina and Julia and grandchildren, Adrian, Aoibhe, Charlotte and Senan. Sadly missed by his first cousins; John Lewis, Theresa Lucas & Sr. Assumptha, the Horrigan family, his sisters and brothers-in-law, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends near and far.

Online, people have been paying tribute to the Kelly family:

"To Nan, Declan, Alan, Regina and extended family, our condolences to you all on the sad passing of Tom. We recall many nights of laughter and fun in Tom's company over the years. Himself and Martin Kelly had many stories to tell. He was one of life's gentlemen, who idolised his family and his many friends. He loved having the craic and banter, while having a pint, and loved nothing more then a good sing song. When he took the microphone in his hand, you couldn't get it back off him. His family meant the world to him and we know you will all miss him dearly. Rest in peace Tom, and we hope you get to share the chats again in heaven, with all the relations gone before you."

"It is with great sadness we pass on our condolences to Nan, Alan, Declan, Regina, Aoibhe, Senan, and the extended family of Tom.

It was always a privilege to be in Tom’s company listening to his stories and songs.

An absolute Gentleman that will be greatly missed..

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Some of Alan Kelly's political colleagues have also paid their respects:

"My Wife Helen and I would like to extend our sincere sympathies and Condolences to The extended Kelly family on the sad passing of Tom. To Toms wife Ann, to Alan, Regina, Aoibhe, Senan, Declan and his wife Julia, Charlotte and Adrian may Tom rest in peace." said Cllr Michael "Chicken" Brennan.

"Deepest condolences to Alan and family on the sad loss of your dear father Tom. Thinking of you all at this time and sending sincere sympathies to the entire family and friends." said Declan Burgess, Cathaoirleach of Tipperary.

"Deepest condolences to Alan and family on the sad loss of your father. Thinking of you all at this time and sending sincere sympathies and very best wishes, Ivana." wrote Ivana Bacik TD.

Reposing at St. Mary’s Church Portroe this Tuesday from 5-8pm. Requiem Mass will take place on Wednesday at 10am at St. Mary’s Church, Portroe, followed by burial in the adjoining graveyard. Livestream details are in the section below.

Family flowers only. Donations if desired to North Tipperary Hospice.