Longford Obituary: Late Brian Nerney was a pillar of wisdom in the community

The late Brian Nerney will be long remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his social consciousness and his huge contribution to life in several counties. He had time for a chat with everyone and enjoyed a social occasion. 

Brian of Correally, Lismacaffrey, Westmeath passed to his eternal reward, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, October 25. 

Brian was one of the longest serving district notes correspondents with the Longford Leader and for decades, he was the driving force behind many initiatives in Streete and district. He began submitting district notes to the Longford Leader in 1992, and retired, after 27 years, in October 2019, handing over the mantle of responsibility to Kevin Brady.

Brian was a pillar of wisdom in the community. He was a mind of information, a great family man, a great community man, a great character always with a great smile and a good story to tell. An astute businessman, he possessed extraordinary organisational skills. He was wise, witty, friendly and determined.

Brian was formerly from Churchlands, Longford, and Culleen House, Roscommon.

He was Manager of Allied Irish Finance Company and in 1974 he founded Longford Brass, which provided valued employment for many years. The magnificent processional cross that was carried by Pope John Paul 11 during his visit to Galway in 1979 was Brian’s work. 

His firm was commissioned to do further brass work for the late pontiff’s visits to both Clonmacnois and Knock. The distinctive bespoke work of Longford Brass was also displayed in the National Gallery and at Dublin Airport Terminal 2.

Former colleagues paid tribute to Brian. One wrote, “I have some great memories of working for Brian Nerney Brassworks back in the eighties which gave me and lots others a great foundation in life which I've always appreciated.”

Another person commented, “Brian was such a lovely person and I enjoyed our many chats and laughs over the years when he worked at Longford brassware. Great memories.”

Brian was educated by the Christian brothers, first in his hometown of Roscommon, where his father was the county surveyor for 36 years, and then in the Cistercian College, Roscrea.

He was a member of the Pastoral Council, Streete Parish Park Vintage Club, Boherquill Ramblers, Westmeath Rural Arts, and the local community development body, among others, for many years.

Brian was Club President and Founder of Boherquill Ramblers walking group and the club paid a poignant tribute to him. 

“Since Brian founded the club in 2000, he has been at the helm, initially guiding a small local group of walkers, which has greatly expanded over the years. Weekly walks extended to include weekends away and Annual International Walking Festivals. 

“In recent years, Brian stepped back as Chair of the club, but continued as President and remained as ever interested and involved. Thanks to the inclusive leadership of Brian and Alice, the Ramblers have explored all over Ireland and made trips abroad to Wales and Holland. 

“Because of the welcome and enthusiasm,  and Brian’s organisational and communication skills, and indeed his bus driving skills, trips were always organised with good humour and minimal fuss. 

“The annual trips to Strangford in County Down were particularly memorable. Brian’s energy was infectious, and his capacity for connecting people means that countless lasting friendships have been formed within and beyond the club. His get-up-and-go spirit and guidance leave a permanent legacy to all who have been lucky enough to have known him.”

Brian’s passion, hard work and community driven attitude enabled Streete to be visible on the map. He was a tireless community activist and encouraged community development. He had a smile and a word for all who had the pleasure of meeting him.

Brian served for many years on the Board of Westmeath Community Development, and was a great activist for groups and communities.

He was also involved in the Pride of Place initiative and in 2009 he received a Cathaoirleach Award from Westmeath County Council in recognition of his involvement in the community.

He was synonymous with Streete Vintage Club and their annual show. One tribute on RIP.ie read, “Brian was a true friend, a legend to all who had the pleasure of knowing him, a dedicated vintage man who never stopped promoting our vintage show and community. You will be sadly missed dear friend. may your gentle soul forever rest in peace.”

The late Brian Nerney was predeceased by his wife Angela, brothers Michael, John, twin brother Patrick and by his sister Mary.

Brian will be sadly missed and remembered with love by his family, his beloved wife Alice (née Dawson), sons Tony and Niall, daughter-in-law Carmel, Tony’s partner Brenda, Martina, sisters-in-law, grandchildren Ruairí, Niall, Daragh, Eve, Laoise, Tadhg, Saidbh and Diarmuid, nieces, nephews, relatives, good neighbours and friends. 

He lay in repose at Our Lady’s Manor Nursing Home Chapel, Edgeworthstown on Friday, October 27 and Mass of the Resurrection took place on Saturday, October 28 in St Mary’s Church, Boherquill followed by interment afterwards in St Fintan's cemetery, Boherquill.

Brian was one of life's true gentlemen, a man of wisdom who was always willing to help others. May he Rest In Peace.