RIP: Galway man dies suddenly in Spain
His family thanked the great efforts made by the emergency services
Tom ‘Fla’ Flaherty from Galway city died on October 19 with his family sharing the news of his sudden passing.
His family thanked the great efforts made by the emergency services but said sadly “it was not to be”.
They said funeral arrangements will follow Tom's repatriation with the details of the celebration of his life coming as soon as possible.
The family also asked anyone considering making a donation to do so to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust or to Galway Hospice where Tom was a proud volunteer.
Galway Express Couriers paid tribute to Tom saying: “May he rest in peace a true gentleman by all means. We worked with Tom for over 20 years. Condolences to all of Tom’s family at this very sad time. Fantastic man to know, from all at Galway Express couriers.”
And a spokeswoman from the Galway Hospice also sent their condolences describing Tom as the “world’s truest Gentleman”.
She said: “My most heartfelt condolences to Tom's wife, sons and Family. It was with great sadness that we learned the news of Tom's passing at Galway Hospice this week. Tom made our days full of fun and laughter, his smile beamed with every hour we spent with him. Never was a task too much trouble for Tom. We absolutely loved working with him as a part of our team. He was definitely one of the world’s truest gentlemen. May you rest in Eternal Peace Tom.”
His RIP.ie notice reads: “It is with deep sadness that Tom’s family share the news of his sudden passing in Alicante, Spain on Monday, 19 October 2026.
“Despite the great efforts made by the emergency services it was not to be. He died with his loving wife by his side. He is predeceased by his beloved parents Michael and Julia.
“Tom is very sadly, missed by his wife Margaret, sons Craig, Keith and Alan, siblings Pat, Maria, Nora and Sean, nieces and nephews, the extended Flaherty and Barrett family, and by his many friends.
“No flowers please. If you would like to make a donation remembering Tom's time as a proud volunteer with the Galway Hospice, please consider giving to them link https://galwayhospice.ie/donate/ and or the the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust. (See link below). Thank you.”