RIP: 'Father Tommy was a gentleman'- Tributes pour in for Laois priest

Tributes have poured in for Laois Father Thomas O' Shea who will be greatly missed by his family and parish community.

Father O' Shea peacefully passed away on the 21st February, 2025.

He is dearly loved and sadly missed by his sister Kathy, his brothers Shem and Liam, nieces and nephews Derek, Barry, Rory, Patrick, Kevin, Anthony, Una, Marina, Alan, Fergal, Philip, Deirdre, Seamus, Paul, Niall, Edel, Ciarán and their families, the clergy of the diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, his parishioners and wide circle of friends.

"Our condolences to Fr. O' Shea's family, friends and religious community. We were blessed to have him as our parish priest. He was so supportive of our Carol Service Choir in Killeen and helped us get up and running.  In his retirement, he made a surprise visit to our house to see our newborn triplets. Such a thoughtful, gentle man. Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas síoraí dá anam," a tribute said on RIP.ie.

"Sending our love, support and deepest sympathy to all the Lawler and O’Shea Family Fr. Tommy was a gentleman and we have fond memories of Sunday dinners, chats & great craic in Kilkenny. May he rest in peace," another said.

"Our deepest sympathises to all Fr. O Sheas family. He will always be remembered as a very special priest in our village. Special thoughts are with Ann & Tony Lacey and Margaret Brennan. May he Rest in Eternal Peace," a tribute read.

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Another tribute said "your sincere sympathies to the O'Shea family on the passing of Fr. Tom.
Very fond memories of his time in Portlaoise especially when he attended to the patients in Portlaoise Hospital. He always provided such great comfort to the sick and those at end of their life."

"Sincere sympathy to the O’Shea family and his fellow priest. I have fond memories of Fr. Tom coming to Mountmellick as young Priest. He had great interest with the youth starting Macra In Mountmellick, drama groups, also I remember he set up silver circle. I spent every Saturday afternoon going around to collect 1 shilling every week from parishioners so they were in weekly draw," another said.