Fond tributes to widely popular Mayo man on his passing

The death of Richard King Snr., The Curragh, and formerly of Spencer Street, Castlebar, has evoked a tremendous sense of loss in the community.

A retired member of the staff of Eircom, he died peacefully in his home yesterday.

Richard was a member of the Castlebar licensed trade for many years and King's Pub at Spencer Street is fondly remembered in the town.

An affable and courteous personality, he was widely popular and was always a joy to meet, such was his warm nature and tremendous sense of humour.

Many warm tributes are being paid to him on social media

"One of life’s true gentlemen," one stated.

"He always had time to chat and laugh," another said.

"Richard was a gentleman, it was lovely to have known him," a further tribute observed.

He is deeply regretted by his loving sons Richard, John, Pat, Michael, Fergal, Alan, Damien (Westport) Brian and Alex, daughters Caroline and Joanne (Killarney), sister Nora Cowell (Manchester),16 grandchildren, son-in-law John, daughters-in-law Nora, Bernie, Mary, Ina, Ann and Laura, brothers-in-law Paddy Joe and Hiriam, sister-in-law Marilyn King, nephews, nieces cousins, relatives, neighbours, former colleagues in Eircom and friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.

Richard was predeceased by his loving wife Bridie, sons Edward and David, brothers Patrick and Sean, sisters Gertie, Jo, Rita and Eileen.

Reposing at the Coady Funeral Home, Castlebar on Wednesday evening from 5 until 7 p.m., followed by removal to his home.

Removal from his home on Thursday morning at 10:15 a.m. to The Church of The Holy Rosary Castlebar, via Spencer Street, arriving at 11 a.m. for Requiem Mass at 11:30.

Interment takes place afterwards in the New Cemetery, Castlebar.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.