West Mayo mourns passing of 'gentleman' Stephen Burns

The death has occurred of Stephen Burns, Garryduff Park, Castlebar, and formerly of Peter Street, Westport.

Stephen died peacefully after a brief illness yesterday at Mayo Hospice, surrounded by his loving family.

A retired member of the staff of Revenue at Davitt House, Castlebar, the deceased was a great supporter of community radio and presented the political show, 'Saturday Forum', on CRCfm for many years.

He also gave outstanding service to Accord, the Catholic marriage care service.

Warm tributes are being paid to him on the condolences page of the death notices website, RIP.ie.

"He epitomised the word gentleman. He was a genuine and real Christian who lived decency, sincerity, kindness and generosity," one stated.

"A loving servant of family, community and Accord," another said.

A further tribute stated: "Such a sad day. Decency personified. A true professional in every sense."

Predeceased by his parents Michael and Delia Burns, Belcarra, Castlebar, and his parents-in-law Lawrence and Alice Cahill, Carrick-on-Suir, Co. Waterford, he was dearly loved husband of Brid (née Cahill), loving father of Orla and Alan, adored grandad of Clodagh, Kaylin, Ailish and Ruth.

He will also be sadly missed by his son-in-law Tom, daughter-in-law Pauline, sisters Kathleen Healy (Milltown, Tuam), Mary Burns (Belcarra) and Nora Coyne (Partry), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, niece, nephews, cousins, relatives, neighbours and many friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.

Stephen will repose in Kilcoyne’s Funeral Home, Thomas Street, Castlebar, on Sunday from 5.30 to 7 p.m.

The funeral will arrive at the Church of the Holy Rosary on Monday for Funeral Mass at 11 a.m.

Afterwards Stephen will be laid to rest in the New Cemetery, Newport Road, Castlebar.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.