Passing of Mayo historian and archaeologist Christy Lawless

The death has been taken place of Christy Lawless, Killard, Turlough, Castlebar, and formerly of Lacke, Parke, Castlebar.

News of his passing has evoked an immense sense of loss and sorrow in the community at large.

A widely known archaeologist and historian, he had a deep love of local heritage.

Christy was also an accomplished photographer and a dedicated community man.

A member of a popular and widely respected local family, he was very actively involved in local voluntary groups.

Christy also played an integral role in identifying Turlough Park House as the ideal location for the magnificent National Museum of Ireland of Country Life that it is today,

The deceased was a former staff member of Mayo County Library and had a long association with its mobile library service.

Christy's working career started at the age of 16 years with the Irish Land Commission.

Following that he worked with Brennan's Hardware and Builders Providers as a driver/shop assistant from 1964-1972, while also working as a part-time night telephonist with the Posts and Telegraphs from 1973 - 1984.

He then worked as a library driver/assistant on mobile libraries at Mayo Co Council from 1972 to his retirement in January 2012.

He and Mary had many shared interests such as social dancing, walks and field trips.

They enjoyed a very fulfilling retirement together. His interests in life were photography, archaeology, history and, most importantly, his family and his three grandchildren Liam, Emma and Roslyn.

Predeceased by his parents Tommy Lawless and Mai Lawless (née McHale), he is survived by his wife Mary (née Brennan), sons Alan and Brian, grandchildren Liam, Emma and Roslyn daughters-in-law Nina and Francesca, brothers Jimmy, Tommy, John and Gerry, sisters Maureen Doyle, Theresa Barrett and Rose Boyle, aunt Teresa Doyle (UK) aunt-in-law Ellie McHale, his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives and many friends.

Deepest sympathy is tendered to the bereaved family on their loss.

Christy will repose in Kilcoyne's Funeral Home , Thomas Street, Castlebar, tomorrow (Saturday) from 5.30 to 7.00 p.m.

Requiem Mass takes place in the Church of the Holy Family, Parke, on Sunday at 1 p.m.

Afterwards Christy will be laid to rest in Parke Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.