There is a dark cloud hanging over Stradbally this week following the passing of one of its most popular members.
Liam Kelly, of Woodview in Stradbally, passed away suddenly but peacefully on Wednesday, July 9.
Mr Kelly, aged in his 60s, was extremely well known in the Little Town and the surrounding areas – and an outpouring of tributes were paid to him on social media following news of his passing.
The current supervisor of the Stradbally Community Employment Scheme, Liam also previously worked in the fire service.
The Stradbally man was an extremely popular and dedicated firefighter who took up duty in 1988.
He rose to the rank of station officer before his retirement in 2018 – after almost 30 years of service.
At the time of his passing, Liam was the Community Employment Supervisor – a position he has held for 35 years.
Liam was also a driving force behind the local Meals On Wheels scheme and the reality is that the number of people who he helped in one way or another over the years is immeasurable.
His work with the Community Employment Scheme brought him into contact with several local groups.
Two of them, Stradbally Town AFC and Stradbally GAA paid tribute to him on social media.
Stradbally Town said: “We extend our deepest condolences to the entire Kelly family, Liam’s partner Betty and his many friends around the Town.
“Liam was always on hand to help out any local club or organisation and was a great supporter of our weekly club fundraiser. He’ll be sorely missed in Stradbally.”
Stradbally GAA said: “It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Liam Kelly, a cherished member of our Stradbally community.
“Liam was a great support to our club through his role with the Community Employment Scheme.
“Liam’s family are also very involved in the club. His daughter Sharon (Carroll) is our Club Child Welfare Officer and Phillip is a former senior player who still plays for our Junior teams. His grandchildren also play for the club.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and his wide circle of friends. His loss is deeply felt across our club and community.”
Liam will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his partner Betty, daughter Sharon, son Phillip and their mother, grandchildren Amber, Ryan, Cathal and Bríain, son-in-law Eamonn, sisters, brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours, friends and colleagues.
Liam will repose at his home on Thursday from 4pm with Recital of the Rosary at 8pm.
Requiem Mass at 11:30am on Friday in the Sacred Heart Church, Stradbally and afterwards Liam will be laid to rest in Oakvale Cemetery.
Liam’s Funeral Mass will be streamed live on the Stradbally Parish Webcam: https://svtparish.ie/webcam.
May he Rest in Peace.
