South Mayo mourns the passing of 'a true institution'

The death of Matthew (Matt) Gilligan, Market Square, Claremorris, has evoked a tremendous sense of loss in the community at large.

In a warm tribute to him, Claremorris GAA Club described him as 'a true institution in Claremorris'.

The tribute continued: "Since 1847, the Gilligan family have been involved in the undertaking business in Claremorris.

"Even more remarkably, only two names have been at the helm in every second generation, Martin and Matthew.

"That’s 170 years of uninterrupted tradition.

"The news of the passing of Mattie has impacted on the people of this community in a special way.

"He was the man who was there to guide them through their own family bereavements over many decades.

"He was close to them when they needed gentle encouragement and reassurance as they tried to come to terms with their own sadness and grief.

"This week it is our turn to share that comfort with the Gilligan family as we bid farewell to a man who held iconic status in our community.

"We also thank Mattie and family for their loyal support and interest in Claremorris GAA Club over the years. His grandson Matthew is a current member of the Under 13 squad.

"We extend condolences to his wife Pat, son Martin, daughter Margaret (Morley), daughter-in-law Olive, son-in-law Charlie, grandchildren Anna, Matthew, Cathal, Ian, Éanna and Adrian, his niece Ann Freeley, nephews David, Fr. Pat, John, Martin and Finian, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, extended family, neighbours and many wonderful friends."

Matt’s funeral cortege will leave the Family Funeral Home, Market Square, tomorrow (Thursday) at 12.30 p.m. for Requiem Mass in St. Colman’s Church, Claremorris, at 1 p.m. (via rear of Market Square).

Burial afterwards in St. Colman’s Cemetery Claremorris.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.