Well-known Laois businessman and community hero passes away in Portlaoise

The death has occurred of Eugene Lacey, a well-known Laois businessman who played a big part in the community life of adopted home in Portlaoise.

A native of Oulart in Co Wexford, Eugene, of Craydon Court, Portlaoise, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, February 12.

Beloved husband of Christine and loving father to Thomas and Eoin, he was also a cherished grandfather to Molly, Harry and Annie. He is also deeply regretted by daughter-in-law Olivia, sister Rita Gammell, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephew, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Eugene had many friends and customers in his business, Eugene Lacey Tarmacadam Ltd, as well as the many people in local community groups he helped during his life. 

He was a driving force in the group that organised the Portlaoise Senior Citizens Party, of which he was a member since 1972. He was to the fore in organising the 59th edition of the party, which took place on January 11, 2026.

He also helped out on pilgrimages to the Holy Land, Fatima and Lourdes. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

Eugene was also heavily involved with the Irish Wheelchair Association and was notably the fundraising Project Manager in the collection of €50,000 to buy a new bus for the Association in 2012.

The Order of Malta was another passion for the Wexford native, who gave much of his time to the service. St Francis School in Portlaoise was another of the many causes he helped raise funds for. 

Aged in his 80s at the time of his death, was also a well-known musician and played on many occasions at venues around Laois. He was a drummer and a singer.

Sport was a nother string to his bow. He was a physio with the Laois National Football League winning team in 1986.
He also helped found and run a No Name, non alcohol club for young people in Portlaoise.

There were many tributes on RIP.ie.

Betty Ryan from Ballacolla paid tribute.

“What a shock I got when I heard this news. Eugene was a true gentleman and a great friend and no matter where we met, he would always stop and chat. He will be sadly missed by you all and indeed anyone who knew him,” she said.

Kathleen and John Mooney from Ballinakill.

"Eugene's generosity in raising funds for St Francis School, Portlaoise in the 80s and 90s has not gone unnoticed and is deeply appreciated, and I am aware of the many Causes Eugene helped with," they said.

There was a tribute from the staff and management at the Killeshin Hotel, which hosted the final senior citizens party Eugene would attend.

“We met with Eugene many times, with his involvement with Portlaoise Retired Group, and he was a gentleman,” they said.

Jim Doyle of the Carlow Wexford Association also paid tribute.

“ Eugene was a member for many years, supported everything we did - played music for many events and never missed a meeting in Carpenters had many a good night's craic,” he wrote.

Reposing at Keegan's funeral home on Sunday from 4 pm until 7 pm. with rosary at 6.30 pm. Removal from the funeral home on Monday morning to arrive at SS Peter and Paul's Church for Requiem Mass at 11 am. Interment will follow in SS Peter and Paul's Cemetery on the Stradbally Road in Portlaoise.

Family flowers only. House strictly private.

May he rest in peace.