Laois locals mourn sad passing of beloved bus driver

There is great sadness across Laois following the sad passing of Richard (Dick) Holohan from Middlemount, Rathdowney.

Dick sadly passed away on Sunday September 21, surrounded by his loving family after bravely battling a short illness.

Dick was born and raised in Middlemount, and was a much loved character in Rathdowney and Clough.

Predeceased by his parents Jack and Bridget, his late wife Kit, sister Mary, brothers John and James (who died in infancy) and stepson Terry, Dick is remembered by his son Ger, daughter-in-law Caroline, his adored granddaughters Lauren, Jess and Zara.

He is dearly missed by his brothers Tony, Denis, Joe and Noel, his sisters Bride, Kathleen, Phil and Ber, his stepdaughter Monica and her family, and the wider Holohan family.

A great dancer, Dick frequented dances in the Templemore Arms, Killesmeestia, Clonmore and Durrow.

His true passion was his bus business, having started working as a young man driving for Joe Brophy in Durrow. He continued to drive buses until he established his own bus company almost 50 years ago.

Having spent many years bussing children to school and locals to bingo, Dick is remembered fondly by many.

Dick lived in Kennedy Park in Roscrea for several years, and is sadly missed by his passengers, friends, neighbours and family.

An overwhelming amount of tributes have been paid to the late Clough man, remembering Dick as a gentleman with a good nature and a great sense of humour.

"Dick was always willing to lend a hand and have a chat," one user wrote.

Many condolences were expressed from bus users familiar with Dick, who shared fond memories and kind words.

"How sad I was to hear of your passing, rip. You were a pure gentleman, two of my brothers who had intellectual difficulties, you were so helpful, encouraging and had a warm word of welcome on to your bus. All so much appreciated and never forgotten by our family. May the light of heaven match your gentle smile," another user said.

"From everyone on bus five, sincere sympathy to Joe and all the Holohan family on passing of Dick. May He Rest In Peace," another tribute read.

"Sincere sympathy to Tony and all the Holohan family on the sad passing of Dick, he drove our girls to school, always a gentleman, may he rest in peace," someone wrote.

Dick was described in many tributes as 'a great character' who was 'always happy to chat', and has been praised as 'a lovely man with great patience'.

"My deepest sympathies to Ger and Caroline and to all the extended family and friends on the passing of Dick. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. May Dick Rest in Peace," Sean Fleming TD said.

"Sincere condolences to Richard's immediate and extended family members, to his relatives and many good friends and to all who mourn his passing. May his soul rest in eternal peace," said Michael Lowry TD.

May Dick rest in peace.

See Dick's funeral arrangements below.

Richard (Dick) Holohan, Middlemount, Rathdowney, Co. Laois and formerly Kennedy Park, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary, September 21st. 2025, peacefully at the Midland's Regional Hospital Portlaoise surrounded by his loving family after a short illness.

Predeceased by his parents Jack and Bridget, his late wife Kit, sister Mary, brothers John and James (who died in infancy) and stepson Terry.

Sadly missed and remembered with love by his son Ger, daughter-in-law Caroline, his adored grand daughters Lauren, Jess and Zara, brothers Tony, Denis, Joe and Noel, sisters Bride, Kathleen, Phil and Ber, stepdaughter Monica and her family, stepson Richard and his family, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Rest In Peace.

Reposing at O'Sullivan's Funeral Home, Rathdowney (Eircode R32 NY24) on Wednesday evening September 24th. from 6 o'clock pausing for prayers at 8 o'clock.

Removal on Thursday morning to St. Canice's Church, Clough arriving for Requiem Mass at 11 o'clock. Interment afterwards in Bealady Cemetery, Rathdowney. Dick's funeral Mass can be viewed by pressing the link to follow.