(In a dry, witty tone, à la Jimmy Carr)
Ah, the thrill of reading about someone’s demise on a Tuesday afternoon. It’s like the ultimate page-turner, isn’t it? “Tom O’Connor, deceased. Oh no, what happens next?” Well, let me tell you, folks. It’s a real nail-biter. He’s gone, and he’s not coming back. (pauses for comedic effect)
But seriously, Tom, the former proprietor of Michael O’Connor’s Public House on Patrick Street in Listowel, has indeed shuffled off this mortal coil, leaving behind a family that’s probably not too thrilled about it. (chuckles) I mean, who would be, right? He’s survived by his wife Eileen, who’s now got the house to herself – that’s a mixed blessing, if you ask me.
(In a silly, exaggerated tone, à la Rowan Atkinson)
Oh, and the progeny! Tom’s got a whole tribe of them! There’s Michael, Thomas, and Elaine, not to mention a plethora of grandchildren: Ryan, Kieran, Aoife, Jasmine, Darren, and Clodagh. I’m exhausted just listing them all! I hope they’re all getting along; I mean, it’s not like they’ll have to fight over the inheritance or anything… (winks)
(In a sarcastic, irreverent tone, à la Ricky Gervais)
And what’s a funeral notice without a bit of gentle arm-twisting, eh? “Family flowers only, please.” Ah, yes, because who needs a bit of colorful floral arrangements to brighten up a dull, miserable day like a funeral? I mean, it’s not like the deceased is going to care – he’s, well, deceased! But, of course, the family will appreciate your restraint. (rolls his eyes) And if you must give something, please, for the love of all things good, send some cash to the Kerry Hospice. I mean, they need the dosh more than Tom needs a decent eulogy. (chuckles)
(In a more contemplative, observational tone, à la Lee Evans)
You know, it’s funny how we mark the passing of someone’s life, isn’t it? We list their relatives, their occupation, and their final resting place. It’s all a bit, well, formal, isn’t it? But amidst all the pomp and circumstance, let’s not forget the man himself. Tom O’Connor, a man who lived, laughed, and loved in Listowel, a man who, at some point, probably told a few jokes, poured a few pints, and made a few friends. So, as we bid him adieu, let’s not just focus on the facts and figures – let’s remember the bloke behind the funeral notice.
(clears throat) Ah, yes, well, that’s all for today’s episode of “Dead and Buried.” Stay classy, folks, and try not to die anytime soon.
(funeral details and donations information)
Reposing at Lyons Funeral Home, Derry, Listowel, this Tuesday evening from 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm.
Funeral arriving at St. Mary’s Church, Listowel, on Wednesday morning at 11.15 am, with the Requiem Mass for Tom being celebrated at 11:30 am.
Burial afterwards in St. John Paul II Cemetery, Ballybunion Road, Listowel.
Family flowers only, please.
Donations, if desired, to Palliative Care at www.kerryhospice.com.
House private, please.
Rest in peace, Tom. May the road rise up to meet you, and all that jazz.
Thomas (Tom) O’Connor, a Pillar of the Community, Passes Away. With profound sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Thomas (Tom) O’Connor, a devoted family man and highly respected member of the Listowel community, on November 24th, 2024, at his residence in Ballygologue Park, surrounded by his loving family, following a life of love, laughter, and devoted service to his community.
Predeceased by his parents, Michael and Mary, and brothers, Michael and Eamon, Tom also mourned the loss of his infant grandchildren, Orla and Declan, whose untimely passing left an indelible mark on his heart.
Tom will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his loving wife, Eileen, his rock and confidante of many years; his devoted sons, Michael and Thomas, who inherited his extraordinary work ethic and kind spirit; his cherished daughter, Elaine, whose love and light brought immense joy to his life; and his six grandchildren, Ryan, Kieran, Aoife, Jasmine, Darren, and Clodagh, who affectionately called him “Granddad” and whose smiles could brighten even the darkest of days.
Tom’s siblings, Roger, Denis, and Maurice, along with his daughters-in-law, Deirdre and Machaela, son-in-law Craig, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, and extended family members will also deeply mourn the loss of a man who exuded warmth, kindness, and hospitality.
His former work colleagues at Listowel Livestock Mart, where he built lasting friendships and professional relationships, will fondly recall Tom’s unwavering dedication to his work and his immense contribution to the local agricultural community.
May His Legacy of Love and Kindness Live On
Reposing at Lyons Funeral Home, Derry, Listowel, on Tuesday evening, November 26th, from 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm, Tom’s family warmly invites his friends, neighbours, and acquaintances to pay their respects to a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
Funeral arrangements include a funeral mass at St. Mary’s Church, Listowel, on Wednesday morning at 11.15 am, which will be live-streamed on www.listowelparish.com for those who cannot attend in person, followed by burial in the serene surroundings of St. John Paul II Cemetery, Ballybunion Road, Listowel.
Supporting a Worthy Cause in Tom’s Memory. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Palliative Care at www.kerryhospice.com, a cause close to Tom’s heart and a testament to his enduring legacy of kindness and compassion.
