RIP: Leitrim man remembered as 'a gentleman who epitomised hard work and honesty'

Condolences and fond memories are being paid to a Leitrim man remembered as “always a pleasure to meet.”

James (Sonny) Keane of Ballinwing, Carrick-on-Shannon passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Sonny was predeceased by his parents Brian and Bridget and his sister Mary Teresa. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his family, including his wife Alicia; daughters Martina, Marie and Ailish; sons Brian, James and Joe (Ballinwing); daughters-in-law Clodagh and Tara; sons-in-law Brian Sweeney (Drumshanbo), Joe Honeyman (Ballinamore) and Dan Quinn (Ballinwing); grandchildren Sadhbh, Patrick, Ned, James, Emma, Paddy, Dhani, Millie, Paul, Jay, Oscar, Anna, Mabel, Edie, Tommy, Mason and Alicia; nephew Seamus Regan; niece Phil Taylor; as well as his relatives, neighbours and friends.

Tributes have been shared on RIP.ie and social media in memory of Sonny. Leitrim Gaels GAA Club also posted a message on Facebook remembering him.

“Leitrim Gaels GAA are saddened to hear of the passing of James/Sonny Keane. A proud supporter of the club, Sonny was always there to support his children and grandchildren on the pitch. Sincere condolences to the Keane family and friends. May he rest in peace,” the post on Facebook said.

READ NEXT: Leitrim woman shortlisted for prestigious agricultural award

Further tributes from RIP.ie have been pouring in.

“He was a lovely man and it was always a pleasure to meet him. May his soul rest in peace,” one said.

“We always enjoyed chatting to Sonny and Alicia at Mass in Leitrim. Sonny was a jovial gentleman. Alicia and Sonny were a great team,” another said.

“A lovely kind man with a great sense of humour and fun,” said another.

Sonny will repose on Thursday, April 9 from 1pm to 3pm at his residence (N41 YN26). A one-way system will be in operation, with entry via the Ballinamore road and exit via Leitrim Village.

READ NEXT: 'We lost everything': Family thanks Leitrim community for support after tragedy

Removal will take place on April 9 to St Joseph’s Church, arriving for 6pm.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place on April 10 at 12pm in St Joseph's Church in Leitrim Village, followed by burial in Drumshanbo New Cemetery.

“A witty hardworking man and good sense of humour and may his sweet soul rest in peace,” stated a tribute.

“Sonny was a gentleman who epitomised hard work and honesty. He was an inspiration to all who knew him and the younger generation following his footsteps,” another said.

“It was always always a pleasure to meet and talk with Sonny, he had a great interest in farming and families,” read another.