Tributes paid following passing of well-known Nenagh man

The town of Nenagh has been shocked and saddened at news of the unexpected death of a local man, Bryan Geaney, who played a big part in the community life of the town.

Bryan, who celebrated his 60th birthday in July, was one of those individuals who got stuck into many organisations and was a great community man at many levels.

A number of organisations and groups in the town have this week expressed their sadness and condolences after learning of Bryan's death in Saint Vincent's Hospital in Dublin on Saturday last.

He was a former member of The Nenagh Players who said they were saddened to hear of his death.

The group stated: "We were so sad to receive the news of the passing of our friend and long-time member Bryan Geaney. Bryan appeared in numerous productions including The Hollow 1983, Arsenic and Old Lace 1985, The Field 1987, Trainee’s in 1987, Philadelphia Here I come 1988 and Run For Your Wife in 1994.

"Our heartfelt condolences to his wife Margaret and sons David, Conor and Hugh, his brothers Michael, Sean, Noel and the extended Geaney family. Rest in Peace Bryan."

In memory of the part Bryan played on the local amateur stage, The Players posted a series of photographs on their Facebook page of some of the roles he had played with them down through the years.

Nenagh Tennis Club pointed out that Bryan had played a key role in its development in an ultra modern amenity down through the years.

The club stated: "It is with great sadness the club has learned of the passing of former Club President Bryan Geaney."

It expressed condolences to his wife and family and poined out that Bryan officially opened its clubhouse in 1999 and more recently attended the opening of its new courts.

One member of the club stated: "It's very sad to hear of Bryan's passing. A very very nice man, always up for the craic.NLTC will be forever grateful for all your hard work."

Labour Party Leader Alan Kelly said Bryan was someone who was a friend who always came to his events.

"He would give encouragement, advice and the odd criticism, to boot, but always in my best interests. I am devastated to learn of his passing over the weekend. He made a huge contribution across life in Nenagh," said Deputy Kelly who expressed his deepest condolences to his wife and wider family.

The Four Mossies, a local band in which Bryan was involved, also paid tribute. Group member Gerry O' Rourke said: "It is with sadness and heavy heart's that we bid farewell to our colleague, friend, and brother Bryan Geaney on his sad passing... Bryan played with our group "No More Mossies" on many occasions, and added great life and humour to each gig. It won't be the same without you Bryan, but we know you will remain playing and supporting us in the background. May you Rest In Peace."

All those who paid tribute offered their deepest condolences to Bryan's wife, three sons and wider family on his passing. A large number of people posted lovely comments about Bryan on social media and pointed out the great contribution he had made to Nenagh in his relatively short life.

A family Funeral Mass for Bryan took place on Friday in St Mary of the Rosary Church, Nenagh,followed by burial in Monsea Cemetery, Ballycommon.