Tribute paid to 'compassionate and popular' retired Offaly hospital consultant

TRIBUTE has been paid to a retired hospital consultant, Dr John Taaffe, who was based at the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore for many decades.

Cavan native, Dr Taaffe, was described as a "popular and compassionate doctor" by former Fine Gael councillor, Tommy McKeigue who served with him for many years on the board of the now defunct Midland Health Board.

A native of Doogarry, Killeshandra, Dr Taaffe lived with his family at "Dew Park", Charleville Road, Tullamore, and was aged in his nineties.

Mr McKeigue described the deceased as a dedicated doctor, devoted to his patients whatever their circumstances.

"He was never at eight to five man and worked all-hours, especially when resources were limited," said the retired councillor.

Mr McKeigue said deceased kept in touch with medical developments and was a sought after member of interview boards in his retirement.

"He was hugely respected by his colleagues and his patients," he added.

Dr Taaffe passed away peacefully at the Regional Hospital Tullamore, surrounded by his loving family.

He was pre-deceased by his sisters Peggy, Teresa, Josie, Rose and Bridie and his brothers Thomas, James and Patrick, and will be sadly missed by his loving wife Martini and children Catherine, Elizabeth and John, son in law Kevin, his adored granddaughter Ailbhe, brother in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, extended family, former colleagues and many friends.

His remains will repose at his home on Sunday from 3pm until Rosary at 6pm. Removal on Monday to the Church of the Assumption, Tullamore, arriving for Funeral Mass at 1pm. Burial after Mass in Clonminch Cemetery, Tullamore.

Family flowers only, please. Donations in lieu to the Friends of Tullamore Hospital

https://www.idonate.ie/cause/FriendsofTheMidlandRegionalHospitalTullamore

Funeral Mass can be viewed on https://tullamoreparish.ie/tullamore-webcam/

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