Tribute to pioneering Mayo businessman Liam Smyth on his passing
The death has occurred of Liam Smyth, Brookhill, and formerly of Main Street, Claremorris.
Liam, a member of the leading business family which owns the Smyths Toys Superstores multinational chain, passed away peacefully earlier today at the Mayo Hospice, Castlebar.
He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Anne, sons Ben, Harry, Sam, Josh and Alex, brothers Tony, Padraig, Tommie and Joe, sister Maura Brennan, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and his many friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.
He was predeceased by his parents Paddy and Birdie.
Claremorris Chamber of Commerce has paid a warm tribute to the deceased, who was such a leading and influential figure in the business life of the town.
It stated: "Words cannot express our sadness at the loss of our dear friend and colleague Liam Smyth.
"On behalf of our members and the business community we offer our deepest sympathies to his wife, Anne, and their sons Alex, Ben, Harry, Josh and Sam, of whom he was so proud.
"Liam was a proud Claremorris man. He always strove to improve its economy and amenities for the benefit of all who live here.
"The DeCare dental insurer, the fibre broadband on which so many rely, the leisure centre and swimming pool, the lake walks and the athletic track, he had a big part in them all.
"A past president and active member of Claremorris Chamber of Commerce, he always found time for local causes, and worked quietly and unassumingly, encouraging groups and people around him.
"With his brothers Tony, Padraig and Tommie, together they accomplished what very few Irish businesses achieve, they grew one shop in a small town into a global giant.
"He wore that modestly. Regardless of how busy he was, he always found time for whatever cause or group needed assistance. Liam was one of a kind.
"Our thoughts are with Anne and their sons Alex, Ben, Harry, Josh and Sam, with Liam's brothers Tony, Padraig, Tommie and Joe, his sister Maura, and the extended Smyth family.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."
Deputy Michael Ring has also paid tribute to the deceased.
He stated: “Liam was a very highly regarded businessman and member of the community here in Claremorris, and he achieved so much during his lifetime.
“I had the pleasure, while I was Minister, of working alongside Liam on a number of local projects for the area and people will never truly know the extent of the work that Liam did for his own community.
“He always prioritised the people of Claremorris and ensured they were never left wanting.
“Liam Smyth was a decent, hardworking man who always strived to do his best in every aspect of his life. He will be missed by all who knew, loved and respected him”.
“I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to Liam’s wife Anne, his sons Ben, Harry, Sam, Josh and Alex and his wide circle of friends and neighbours.”
Liam’s remains will repose at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris (F12YP74) from 6 p.m. on Tuesday evening until 8 p.m.
Remains will arrive to St. Colman’s Church, Claremorris, for Funeral Mass on Wednesday at 12 noon, with burial afterwards in St Colman’s Cemetery (via Main Street).