Tributes paid to stalwart of farming community in Mayo and on national stage

A PILLAR of the local and farming community in Achill and beyond, the death of Tom Fadian is being deeply mourned.

Tom, from Slievemore, Achill, was a figure synonymous with the IFA in Mayo and on the national stage over many years.

He died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, in the wonderful care of the staff at Mayo Hospice.

He will be sadly missed and remembered with love by his wife Fiona, children Stephen, John, Cora, Sarah, Conor and Roisin, daughters-in-law Diana, Jayne and Neda, son-in-law Adam, 11 grandchildren, his sister Mary and brother John, aunt Mary, sisters-in-law Ann, Brenda and Mary-Jo, brothers-in-law Rory and Vince, nieces, nephews and his many relatives, neighbours and friends, to whom sympathy is extended on their great loss.

Tom was a proud Achill man and always made time for people, be it to discuss farming matters, local developments or local history, on which he was very knowledgable.

Among the many warm online tributes being paid to Tom on rip.ie., one recalled: “He was an inspiration and a leading light in IFA in Achill, Mayo and nationally. Tom always gave so generously of his time support and friendship for the many causes in Irish farming and in the development of his beloved Achill.”

A tribute from the board and staff of Comhlacht Forbartha Áitiúil Acla and the Achill Experience set out his positive influence on many aspects of life locally: “Tom served diligently as a member of the board of Comhlacht Forbartha Áitiúil Acla for many years up until his retirement last Spring. Tom was very proactive, progressive and passionate about all things Achill, especially regarding creating employment opportunities, advocating for our youth and the Achill-Cleveland Twinning.

“Tom’s passing leaves a huge void in our parish. He was a go to man for history, and for advice on agricultural matters. He represented Achill's farming community at local, county and national level through his involvement with the IFA.

“He was a very patient man and was very generous with his time and his consul. You will be sorely missed Tom. Rest in Peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”

Reposing is in Lavelle's Funeral Home, Cashel, Achill (F28 YO H9), on Friday evening from 4.30 until 6.30 p.m., with removal to the Church of the Assumption, Dookinella, arriving at 7 p.m. Funeral Mass on Saturday morning at 11 a.m. with burial afterwards in Slievemore Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.