Tributes have been paid following the sad passing of one of the founding members of St Jarlath’s Independent Pipe Band on Monday.
Michael ‘Mickey’ Kelly, from Drumcullen in Blackwatertown, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.
He was the husband of Colette and dear father to John, Louise and Peter.
St Jarlath’s Independent Pipe Band, which only last month celebrated 40 years, led tributes to a “gentleman” and one of its founders.
“Mickey held the position of band treasurer and secretary up until recent years but still remained a member of the band community attending practice nights and stewarding and attending band parades whenever he could,” they wrote.
“He was delighted to take part in the 40th Anniversary celebration of the band in September and was recently presented with a glass trophy for his years of service to the band.
“He will be sorely missed by all band members but especially by his nephew and band piper Michael.
“To his loving wife, children and grandchildren and all the family circle we offer our sincere condolences. RIP Mickey. A gentleman.”
Many others expressed their sadness at the loss of “one of life’s gentlemen”, a man whose company it was a pleasure to be in.
He will be sorely missed by all those who knew him.
Michael’s remains will repose at his late home from Tuesday at 10am, until removal on Thursday at 10.30am, to the Church of St Jarlath Clonfeacle for 11am Requiem Mass, with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Wake will be open from 10am to 10pm Tuesday and Wednesday. Family flowers only please. Mass can be viewed on line https://clonfeacle.onlinemass.org. Any further enquiries to Martin Kelly Funeral Directors 02837510600
