Funeral announced for Laois accident victim

A POPULAR Laois musician who lost his life in a road accident yesterday evening will be laid to rest this Sunday.

The death of Tony Kavanagh from Thornberry, Abbeyleix has caused immense shock and sadness throughout the town and surrounding areas.

Aged in his 70s, he suffered fatal injuries when he was struck by a car while walking in Main Street, Abbeyleix at about 7pm.

He was rushed to hospital following the collision but was sadly pronounced dead later at the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore.

His remains will repose on Saturday at the Chapel of Rest, adjoining the Church of the Most Holy Rosary, Abbeyleix, from 6.30pm to 8pm, with prayers at 6.30pm.

Requiem Mass on Sunday at 11am will be followed by a private family cremation.

Jeremiah Anthony (Tony) was predeceased by his parents Jerry and Joan and his sister Marian.

His death notice on RIP.ie says that he is sadly missed by his sisters Carmen and Geraldine, brothers Val and Sean, brothers-in-law Henk and Patsy, sister-in-law Chris, nephews P.J., Eoghan, Sean and Liam, nieces Zita and Orla, grandnieces, aunts and uncles, extended family neighbours and friends.

A single man, Mr Kavanagh was a talented saxophone player and regularly performed at senior citizens’ parties and many other events.

He is described locally as a wonderful, friendly person and a true gentleman, whose loss will be deeply felt throughout the community.

Fianna Fáil councillor John Joe Fennelly from Abbeyleix said the town is in deep shock following the tragedy, as he described Tony as a very popular character who always loved to have a chat and a laugh.

Expressing his condolences to the family, Cllr Fennelly said: “It is terribly sad and he will be sadly missed around the town.” 

Gardaí investigating the fatal collision, which happened outside the town’s SuperValu store, have appealed for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact them.

Anyone with camera footage, including dash-cam, from the area between 6.30pm and 7.30pm on Wednesday 28 January is asked to make this footage available to gardaí.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Abbeyleix Garda Station on 057 8730580, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.