Sadness at passing of one of Tullamore's most beloved citizens

THERE was widespread grief last week at the death of one of Tullamore's oldest and most beloved citizens.

Frank Delaney, 112 O'Molloy St, passed away peacefully at the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore following a short illness.

He was aged 88.

Frank lived all his life in Tullamore and worked as a farmer and lorry driver, travelling all over the Midlands, during his younger days.

He delighted in recounting stories and anecdotes from his time travelling all over Offaly, Laois, Westmeath and further afield in the delivery lorry.

In his youth he was a keen sportsman and was a member of Tullamore Harriers.

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His love of sport, in particular gaelic games, continued throughout his life, right up to his passing.

Frank was also deeply interested in current affairs, whether local, national or global.

He relished reading his daily paper and his weekly local paper and would often speak with great knowledge on current news events.

Gregarious and outgoing, Frank enjoyed social drinks in both the Goalpost and Lantern public houses where he had many friends of all ages.

He also had a deep faith and was a regular Mass goer.

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His remains reposed at O'Reilly's Funeral Home on Friday afternoon and removal was to the Church of the Assumption.

Funeral Mass was celebrated on Saturday morning by Fr Joe Campbell with burial afterwards to Clonminch Cemetery.

Frank was pre-deceased by his parents Joe and Bridget and his brothers Pat, Jim and Joe.

Deepest sympathy is extended to his sister Bridgie (Martin), sister in law Anne, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.

May he rest in peace.