RIP: Brian Rafferty much loved Tipperary community figure and former councillor passes

The death has occurred of Brian Rafferty of St. Michael Street, Tipperary Town, who passed away unexpectedly on January 31, 2026. Brian was predeceased by his father Pat and his brother Eoin.

READ NEXT: Finals weekend up and running for Tipperary schools as St Joseph's Borris-Ileigh claim C title!

He is deeply regretted by his loving family: his sons Rory and Tim, daughters Elizabeth and Maebh and their mother Marianne, his mother Nuala, his partner Marian, sisters Emer and Niamh, brother Niall, Marian’s children Caolin, Hayden and Alexandra, brothers-in-law Sean and Padraic, sisters-in-law Jackie and Karen, daughter-in-law Clara, nephews, nieces, extended family, relatives and a wide circle of friends.

Brian is reposing at Fogarty’s Funeral Home, Blind Street, Tipperary, on Thursday, February 5, from 5.30pm to 7.00pm. He will arrive at St. Michael’s Church, Tipperary, on Friday at 11.30am for Requiem Mass at 12 noon, followed by burial in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Tipperary. The Requiem Mass may be viewed online.

Brian was widely known for his extensive working life across business, local government and the arts. He was Managing Director of the Irish Aerial Creation Centre and brought with him a wealth of business and trade association experience.

Following completion of a business degree in the University of Limerick, he took over the family travel business, which operated four agencies, until 2011.

He served on the board of the Irish Travel Agents Association for over 20 years and held the position of Vice President for more than eight of those years.

His career also included work in the property business, and in recent years he scaled up a number of enterprises including Travelsavers and The Urban Coop.

Brian served as Economic Development Officer with Waterford County Council and was also an elected County Councillor in Tipperary.

In his role with the Irish Aerial Creation Centre, Brian was keen to bring his experience to board level and was actively involved in lobbying for appropriate insurance solutions for the sector.

Condolences

Many tributes have been paid to Brian, reflecting the high regard in which he was held both locally and further afield.

One condolence message read: “Sincere condolences to Marian and Brian's wider circle of friends and family on Brian's passing. Brian was a lovely guy and a real gent and we will miss seeing him during the summer months in Bayview on the Gold Coast. May he RIP.”

Another tribute stated: “Very saddened to hear of Brian's sudden passing. Its not that long ago that I met him and had a lovely catch up. We 1st met in Tipperary in our Junior Chamber days. Early 80s. A true gentleman. Sincere Condolences and Sympathy to Brian's family, extended families and friends. May he rest in eternal peace.”

A further message recalled his public service and voluntary work: “Sincere sympathy to Brian's Children, his Mam, Partner, Brian's brothers and sisters, and all who mourn him. Fond memories of Brian and our time spent as Councillors in Tipperary Town Council and all the other organisations that Brian gave so much of his time on a voluntary basis. He will be sorely missed. Ar dheis Dé go raibh an anam dílis.”

Family flowers only are requested, with donations if desired, to Circle of Friends, Tipperary Town.

READ NEXT: PICTURES: Popular Tipperary couple celebrate special 60th wedding anniversary