RIP: ‘Another good soul gone too soon’ - Tributes paid following sudden passing of Leitrim man

There has been an outpouring of condolences following the sudden passing of a Leitrim man remembered as “another good soul gone too soon.”

Michael Gildea of Drumrahill, Mohill passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 13. He was predeceased by his parents James and Maria Gildea.

He is deeply mourned by his wife Eileen (née Doherty), and his children Dónal, Eva, Aidan, Áine and Seán, who will all miss him greatly.

He will also be forever loved and deeply missed by his cherished grandchildren Ellie, Emily, Alice, Tiernan, Niamh, Chloe, Farrah, CJ, Maeve and Clodagh, who brought him endless joy.

He is also survived by his sons-in-law Shane Brosnan (Eva) and Conor Beirne (Áine), and by his children’s partners Keara Geary (Dónal) and Aileen Rinn (Seán), as well as his loving sisters and brothers Marguerite Roche, Mary Lewis, Kathleen Purtill, Jim Gildea, John Gildea, Theresa Gildea and Eileen Howard. He is also mourned by his nieces, nephews, extended family, kind neighbours and a wide circle of loyal friends.

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Tributes on RIP.ie have described Michael in heartfelt terms. “He was a man with a heart of gold, always willing to help everyone. May his kind and gentle soul rest peacefully,” one message read.

“He was a decent gentleman who was always friendly and will be missed by many but not forgotten,” another said. “Michael was such a decent friendly man always happy to chat and share a joke. A man how cherished his family and adored his grandchildren,” another tribute added.

“I have many very fond and happy memories of him. He always made me feel so welcome and never ran out of things to talk about, and I enjoyed the conversation and his hearty laugh. He was a gentleman and I hope he is at peace now,” another condolence message shared.

Funeral mass for Michael took place on Saturday, April 18 at St Patrick’s Church in Mohill, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

“Many a great night's laughing we had in Drumrahill. Always made so welcome. Michael was always out to greet us, before we ever got to the door,” another tribute recalled.

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“Michael was an absolute gentleman. Had great conversations with Michael over the years in his yard or in the town. He was a solid, decent honorable man,” another message said.