End of an era as popular Tipperary postmaster retires and post office moves
End of an era as Fethard postmaster Barry Connolly retires after 40 years
It's the end of an era in Fethard today (Friday, November 6) as the town's popular postmaster Barry Connolly retires after more than 30 years in the role, which has been held by four generations of his family.
Barry's retirement also marks the closure of the post office in its current form, bringing an end to more than a century of the Connolly family's association with the service in the town.
Barry worked at Fethard Post Office for over 40 years, joining his late mother Anne behind the counter at the age of 17 after completing his Leaving Certificate.
He became the fourth generation of his family to manage the town's post office when he took over from his mother as postmaster following her retirement in the 1990s.
His own retirement marks the end of his family's 110-year association with Fethard Post Office, which began with his great-grandmother Nanette Goldsbrough, the first member of the family to work there.
Tributes and good wishes have been shared online for Barry and his colleague Audrey Devine as they prepare to close the doors of the post office for the final time today.
The postal service will now move to Kenny's Centra in Fethard, who have wished Barry and Audrey the very best for the future.
In a post on social media, they wrote:
“Today, as Audrey and Barry close the doors of the Post Office for the final time, we would like to wish them both the very best for the future.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank them for the fantastic service they have provided to our community over the years. Their dedication and friendly service will certainly be missed.
“Post Office services will continue here at Kenny’s Centra from 11am on Monday morning, and we look forward to welcoming you all and hope to continue providing the same fantastic service that Audrey and Barry have given over the years.
“Wishing Barry and Audrey every happiness and success in the next chapter. Thank you both for everything! ❤️”