RIP - Tributes to former council chairman in Kilkenny who was a ‘smashing man’

Elected members of Kilkenny County Council have been paying their respects to the late John Maher in recent weeks, following his passing in March.

The most recent plenary meeting of Kilkenny County Council in March was temporarily adjourned as a mark of respect for the former cathaoirleach, with tributes led by current cathaoirleach Mary Hilda Cavanagh.

Elected members at the Piltown Municipal District meeting also took some time to share memories of John at their most recent district meeting, following a vote of sympathy.

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Cllr Tomás Breathnach stated that after an encounter with John, ‘you’d always be glad that you met him’ and described him as a ‘smashing man’.

Cllr Fidelis Doherty described him as being ‘always friendly’ and a ‘very sociable person’.

Cllr Jenny Catt Slattery stated that she knew him not from politics, but ‘as a neighbour over the road’.

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Cllr Ger Frisby also added that he knew him and that he wished to sympathise with his entire family following their loss.

John passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026 under the tender care of his loving family and the ICU team at University Hospital Waterford.

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He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Ann, his infant son, John Paul, his parents Neddie and Mary and his brother, William.

 Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam

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