Tributes to Laois GP after unexpected death
Dr Fergus McKeagney, RIP
HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a long-serving Laois GP, who died unexpectedly on Saturday morning.
Dr Fergus McKeagney from Portarlington was a popular and highly regarded GP for over 35 years in the town and surrounding areas, where three generations of his family served as GPs.
His late parents, Drs Oonagh and Charles McKeagney, set up their practice on Main Street, Portarlington in the early 1960s. They were followed into medicine by Fergus and in turn by his sons Fergus and Neil, all working at the MediCentre in Portarlington. The centre will be closed this Tuesday as a mark of respect.
In a social media post titled ‘A Gentle Presence, A Lasting Legacy’, MediCentre Portarlington said: ‘It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Dr Fergus McKeagney.
‘Fergus was a cornerstone of the Portarlington community for many decades, known and loved by generations of families. His name became synonymous with kindness, wisdom and compassionate care.
‘As a GP, he brought not just medical skill, but an extraordinary warmth and empathy to every patient encounter.
‘Fergus gave so much of himself to others – quietly, generously, and with a deep sense of purpose.
‘Each year, he travelled as part of the Portarlington pilgrimage to Lourdes, giving his time and expertise in the same selfless way he did at home.
‘He was a wonderful colleague – calm, supportive, and always ready to lend a hand or share a moment of humour.
‘He had a deep love of nature, music, and the arts, and a rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
‘But above all, Fergus was a devoted husband and proud father, whose love for his family shone through in everything he did.
‘We are heartbroken at his loss, but feel deeply grateful to have known him, worked alongside him and called him our friend.
‘Our thoughts are with his beloved family during this difficult time.’
The family death notice on rip.ie says: ‘Dr Fergus McKeagney, Belmont, Main Street, Portarlington, Laois passed unexpectedly but peacefully in Portlaoise Hospital on the morning of 17 May, surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his parents Charles and Oonagh.
He will be dearly missed by his loving wife Liz, his children Fergus, Neil, Sarah, Dara and Cian, his six siblings Francis, Fiona,, Niall, Garrett, Eoin and Morgan, the family circle, neighbours and many friends.
Fergus worked as a GP for over 35 years in tireless service of his community in Portarlington and the surrounding areas. While he was happiest surrounded by friends and family, he had a passion for music, golf and fishing.
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Reposing at Maher's Chapel of Rest, Portarlington (eircode R32 X5XV) from 5pm with Rosary at 8pm on Monday 19 May.
Removal from his residence on Tuesday morning at 11.15am, arriving at St Michael's Church, Portarlington for Requiem Mass at 12 noon. Funeral afterwards to St Michael's Cemetery, Portarlington.
Dr Fergus's Requiem Mass will be streamed live on https://www.mcn.live/Cameras/st-michaels-church-portarlington Family flowers only please.
You can leave your condolences on the online Condolence Book on rip.ie.
The family would like to thank you for your help and understanding at this sad and difficult time.’
