One of Laois’s oldest citizens dies at 103

ONE of Laois’s oldest residents has passed away at the age of 103.

Joseph (Tom) Cusack from Borris-in-Ossory died peacefully on 16 September, at The Residence Nursing Home in Portlaoise.

From Ballykevan, Knockaroo, he was among a select group of local citizens to reach the milestone 100th birthday, when he received the customary congratulatory letter and cheque from then-President Michael D. Higgins.

He also received a commemorative coin and another signed letter on each of his three subsequent birthdays.

Predeceased by his wife Margaret (née Comerford), he is fondly remembered as a kind, hardworking and gentle man who was a very helpful neighbour.

In his death notice on RIP.ie, the Cusack family extended sincere thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of St Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny and Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise, for their wonderful care and kindness.

Mr Cusack will be sadly missed by his son Joseph (Joe), daughter Concepta, nieces, nephews, Joe's partner Mary, Concepta's partner Fergal, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Reposal is at Guilfoyle's Funeral Home, Castletown this Friday evening from 5pm to 7pm, concluding with prayers at 7pm. Funeral Mass this Saturday at 11am in St Kieran's Church, Knockaroo will be followed by burial in the church grounds.

The growing number of residents in the county reaching the golden age of 100 was recognised earlier this year, when the Laois County Council Centenarian Award was officially launched in collaboration with Age Friendly Laois.

Centenarian Breda Fitzpatrick from Wolfhill became the first-ever recipient of the award last March, when she was honoured at a ceremony in County Hall.

The award celebrates and honours residents of Laois who reach the age of 100, recognising their lifetime of contribution to family, community and society. Centenarians who receive the award are honoured with a commemorative coin, designed to mark their extraordinary achievement.

This year also sadly marked the passing of Sylvia Mathews from Portarlington, just two weeks after celebrating her 107th birthday in January, the day before the death of Bridget (Brin) Fitzpatrick from Ballacolla, who passed away peacefully at home at the age of 105.