Castlebar's Leo O'Shaughnessy 'reflected the very best of humanity and exuded goodness'
The parish priest of Castlebar has described Leo O'Shaughnessy, Market Square, Castlebar, as one of the most extraordinary people he ever met.
Speaking at his Requiem Mass in the Church of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, Fr. Conal Eustace said the deceased was 'the most transparent of men' who always did good for others.
In his poignant tribute, Fr. Eustace continued: “He reflected the very best about humanity and I have rarely seen such transparency in a person.
"It was a privilege to have known him. He was innocent in the very best sense of the word, incapable of deceit.
“Leo was family to everybody, particularly those in need.
"We were all enriched by him. Life always felt better after chatting with him.
“A historian and a storyteller, it was always interesting listening to him.
"To know him was indeed to love him. He exuded goodness. He was noble and mindful of others.
“His heart always went out to anybody in need of help.
"This parish is indebted to him for his good life and work. He will be sadly missed.”
His coffin was draped in the flag of the PTAA as his remains were removed to his place of rest in the Old Cemetery, Castlebar.
He was a pioneer for over 75 years.
His many friends in the town formed a Guard of Honour, such was the high regard he was held in the community.
Leo is deeply regretted by niece Elizabeth (UK), cousins, relatives and friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.
Earlier, people gathered at Market Square to decorate the Christmas tree in yellow ribbons and flowers while daffodils were placed at the front of his home in a gesture of thanks to him for upholding over many years the old local tradition of placing flowers on the thresholds of homes every May Day.
Hundreds of tributes have been paid to Leo across social media since his death was announced last Tuesday.
The cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, Councillor Blackie Gavin, has supported a call by former councillor Johnny Mee for a plaque to be erected in honour of Leo O'Shaughnessy at Lough Lannagh, where he picked his May Day flowers annually, and to name the road leading into the car park at the lake as Mayflower Walk.