Remembering the late Joe Quinn who gave a lifetime of service to his community in Tipperary

Remembering the late Joe Quinn - Retired member of An Garda Síochána and a founder member of Tipperary Peace Convention

Joseph (Joe) Quinn, Galbally Road, Tipperary Town, and formerly of Ballynacally, County Clare, who passed to his eternal reward on Monday, February 16, 2026, was a man whose life was defined by service — to his family, to his community, and to the cause of peace.

A proud member of An Garda Síochána, Joe gave many dedicated years to public service, carrying out his duties with integrity, fairness and quiet strength.

READ NEXT: WARNING: Tipperary Credit Union members targeted by phishing email scam

He brought to his work the qualities that would define his entire life — patience, decency and a deep respect for people. Retirement did not mark an end to service; rather, it opened a new chapter.

In Tipperary Town, Joe established his driving school, becoming a trusted and reassuring presence to generations of young drivers.

He played a central role in establishing the Transition Year Driving Course at The Abbey School, where his calm guidance and wonderful rapport with students created a safe and encouraging learning environment.

READ NEXT: Tipperary man's lifetime of service is rewarded with Club Person of the Year award

Many a nervous beginner found confidence behind the wheel because of Joe’s steady hand and gentle humour. One of his proudest days was when he had the honour of bringing the late Gay Byrne, then Chairman of the Road Safety Authority, around the Driving Course — a moment that reflected both Joe’s commitment to road safety and the respect in which he was held.

Yet it was perhaps through Tipperary Peace Convention that Joe’s vision shone brightest. A founding member and long-time Chairman, he was a community man to his fingertips.

The Peace Convention, with its International Peace Award and Song of Peace Contest, would simply not be what it is today without Joe’s foresight and unwavering belief in honouring those who strive for a more peaceful world.

Even when declining health forced him to step back from leadership, his spirit remained embedded in its work.

There are so many treasured memories — welcoming dignitaries from near and far to Tipperary; evenings of song, conversation and fellowship; and above all the warmth of Joe and Mary’s open door on Galbally Road.

Their home was a place of hospitality, laughter and belonging. Joe believed that peace began in community — around the table, in shared stories, in friendship freely given.

His commitment to Tipperary extended far beyond the Convention. He was deeply involved with the local Scouts, the Canon Hayes Recreation Centre, and served as a former Honorary Mayor of Tipperary — roles that reflected his lifelong dedication to nurturing young people and strengthening community life.

Joe leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the safer drivers he taught, the young people he encouraged, the peace he championed, and the countless lives he touched with kindness.

Deepest sympathy is extended to his dearly loved wife Mary; his son Cathal; daughters Finola and Niamh; daughter-in-law Colette; sons-in-law Stuart and Gary; his cherished grandchildren Jade, Mark, Ciara, Alex, Isobel, Harper and Zach; great grandchild Sé-Og; grandson in law Seamus; brother Tom and sister Mary; nephews, nieces, extended family and a wide circle of friends — and to the entire Tipperary community who mourn his loss.

Joe Quinn was a gentleman in the truest sense — steady, sincere and generous of heart.

Rest in Peace, Joe. You will be sadly missed, but gratefully remembered.