End of an era as beloved Laois village shop closes its doors after 32 years
Beloved local shop Killeshin Stores located in Killeshin village in Co Laois closed its doors on Sunday after 32 years in business
A much loved village shop has closed its doors for the final time after more than three decades serving the local community.
Killeshin Stores closed on Sunday, October 18 at 1pm as owners Jim and Dora Fennell retired, bringing an end to 32 years of business in Killeshin.
The shop, which sold groceries, sweets, briquettes and other essentials was described by locals as a “gem”, and a special part of village life.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the Killeshin community following the closure, with Killeshin FC describing the shop as “the heartbeat” of the community.
The club thanked Jim and Dora for their “tremendous service and dedication,” adding that the store “will be missed greatly.”
Members of Killeshin FC U-12 girls team also called into the shop on closing day to present Jim and Dora with a small gift on behalf of everyone at the club.
“End of an era,” the club said in it’s tribute, wishing the couple many years of “good health and happiness” in their retirement.
Killsehin GAA club, in a post on TikTok, said the closure “prompted a wave of sadness and well wishes across Killeshin.”
Killeshin Community Centre also paid tribute to Jim and Dora, saying, “on behalf of the community centre, our sincere thanks to you both for all you have done, amazing people - enjoy your retirement.”
The closure also prompted an emotional reaction from locals, with one person describing it as “another part of Ireland losing part of it’s parish soul.”
“Sad to see the old shops closing. Happy retirement to you both,” another person wrote.
One commenter reminisced on the great lengths Dora went to when she ran out of hairclips before her debs.
“I remember I ran out of hair clips before my debs and ye didn’t have any in the shop so Dora ran inside the house to grab some of her own for me,” she recalled.
“That’s the kind of special place this shop was” Sad to see your lovely shop close but delighted for you both and wishing you all the best for your retirement.”
Another local thanked Jim and Dora for “all your chats and laughter over the years.”
After 32 years in business, Jim and Dora’s final day marks the end of an era for the village of Killeshin.