Passing of leading Mayo veterinary surgeon and former councillor

The death has taken place of George O’Malley, veterinary surgeon, Mountain View, Castlebar.

He died peacefully surrounded by his family in the loving care of the staff of Mayo Hospice.

The deceased was widely known and respected throughout the county as a result of his busy professional career.

A life-long member of Fianna Fáil, he served as a member of the former Castlebar Urban Council from 1987 to 1994 and was chairman in 1993/94.

George was also an officer of the local Fianna Fáil Comhairle Ceanntair for a number of years.

In a tribute, former Castlebar Fianna Fáil councillor Eamon Joyce described George as an excellent colleague who displayed great loyalty to his party.

"He was a man for all seasons in political life, being able to swiftly adapt to different situations that invariably cropped up.

"He was a very flamboyant person, possessing an immense sense of humour. But, most of all, he was a great Castlebar man," said Eamon.

Another former elected colleague of the deceased, Johnny Mee, said he was very saddened to learn of George's passing.

"I got on very well with him. He was a first class councillor, always very constructive and seeking the very best for the town. He was wonderful company, a person who enjoyed a bit of harmless fun and banter," stated Johnny.

In his youth, George was an accomplished rugby player who performed with distinction for Castlebar Rugby Club over many seasons.

He also played Gaelic football at junior level for Castlebar Mitchels and he had a long association with Castlebar Tennis Club. George also donned the colours of Castlebar Celtic for a number of years.

A tribute to him by Castlebar Rugby Club stated: "George will be sadly missed by all his friends at Castlebar RFC where he was so influential to the club over the many great years involved.

"George learned his rugby in Presentation College Bray. He was a marvellous and courageous wing forward, a great club captain, club president and, as a trustee along with several others, was instrumental in securing and developing our wonderful facilities that exist today at Castlebar RFC!

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. May he rest in peace."

Predeceased by his parents Paddy and Joan and his brother Pat, George is deeply regretted by his heartbroken wife Laura, sons John, Pearse, Simon, George and Patrick, daughter Ruth, brothers Owen and Brian, sisters Ann (Buttimer, Tralee) and Maureen (Mullen, UK).

He is also survived by his brothers-in-law David, Declan, Cathal and Fintan, sisters-in-law Ann, Jane, Carole and Fiona, daughters-in-law Eibhlin, Jeanne-Chérie and Elaine, Simon’s partner Karen, George’s fiancée Annie, and Ruth’s fiancé Danny, grandchildren Ryan, Keelyn, Kate, Sarah, Ellen, Adam, Alfie and Grace, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

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

Remains will be reposing at Coady’s Funeral Home on Thursday at 5 p.m. with removal at 7 p.m. to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar.

Funeral Mass on Friday morning at 11.30 a.m. followed by burial in the Old Cemetery, Castlebar.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.