Portlaoise is mourning the passing of William (Billy) Rowan, the founder of Reliable House Furnishers on Station Road, a business that has been woven into the life of the town for more than half a century.
Billy passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, January 22.
For generations of local families, Reliable House Furnishers has been more than a shop.
It has been a familiar face on the street, a place where neighbours stopped for a chat, and where countless homes across Laois were furnished with care.
The business first opened its doors on November 1, 1969, and grew steadily from modest beginnings into a trusted destination for furniture, carpets, blinds and flooring.
The premises had previously been a dance hall, and the business initially involved second-hand pieces, with Billy travelling to source quality stock and building a loyal customer base through consistency and personal service.
In the early years, the shop was run by Billy alongside his brothers Harry and Douglas.
Together, they weathered changing times and economic challenges, while keeping the business rooted firmly in the community it served.
Those who knew Billy best often described his approach as simple and steady: do right by people, and the business will follow.
He believed in quality, fairness, and looking after customers — values that were evident in the way the shop operated year after year.
Reliable House Furnishers became known not only for its products, but for the warmth of its welcome and the reliability that lived up to its name.
Billy was predeceased by his beloved wife Florence and his brother Douglas.
He is dearly loved by his daughters Serena, Pamela and Nicola, and cherished as a grandfather to Naomi, Miriam and Andrew.
He is deeply regretted by his sons-in-law, extended family, friends, and by the many loyal customers who came to know him over decades in business.
Funeral arrangements are as follows: Billy will repose at his family home, “Avondale”, Clonreher, on Saturday from 3pm to 7pm.
Removal will take place on Sunday to arrive at St Peter’s Church of Ireland, Market Square, Portlaoise, for a 2pm service, followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery.
The house is strictly private on Sunday morning.
As Portlaoise reflects on his life, many will remember Billy Rowan not only as a businessman, but as a familiar, dependable presence — someone who helped generations turn houses into homes.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
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 Rowan, the founder of Reliable House Furnishers after more than 55 years in business.){kind=link}