Death of much loved Newport personality

THE death has taken place of Mickey Kelly, Castlebar Stret, Newport, one of the west Mayo's town's best known personalities.

Paying tribute to him today, journalist and broadcaster Michael Commins said: “The news spread fast around Mayo last night about the passing of Mickey Kelly so soon after he celebrated his 80th birthday in Newport at the end of July. 

“Mickey was truly 'auld stock'. He was an integral part of so many of Gerry Flynn's Enjoy Travel ventures for more than two decades. Set dancing was such a part of his life and he loved to sing a few Jim Reeves songs along the way too. 

“News of his passing will be received with much sadness and regret. He was a great supporter of Inis Aoibhinn, the home-away from home for cancer patients attending Galway Regional Hospital, and often brought singers, musicians and dancers to the place to entertain those going through treatment, nights that were always cherished in such a special way. 

“He always loved to sport the Mayo jersey and colours and was one of the 'true-hearted men from the County Mayo'. 

“How he would have loved to be fit and able to be in Croke Park cheering on Mayo on Sunday week.”

His remains will be reposing at St. Dominic's Funeral Home, Newport, tomorrow (Thursday) evening from 4.30 to 8 p.m.

Requiem Mass takes place in St. Patrick's Church at 11 a.m. on Friday morning with burial afterwards in Burrishoole Cemetery.