'What a character' - Tipperary community heartbroken by the loss of popular local man

Tributes have poured in following the death of Gerry Ryan of Coole, Newport and formerly of Pallasgreen, County Limerick.

Gerry passed away surrounded by his family at University Hospital Limerick on Tuesday, April 1 after battling an illness. He sadly leaves behind his wife Isabelle, son Graham, daughter Aoife, five grandchildren, extended family and a wide circle of friends. 

Many people in Tipperary and afar have paid tribute to Gerry who was a former employee at Limerick Prison for many years as well as a devoted member of Nenagh Golf Club. 

Many have taken to share their fondest memories of the golfer and family man on his RIP.ie notice as well as to express their deepest condolences with his family. 

Among the many kind words left, one person wrote: "We worked together for over 40 years. He was a great work colleague. We also played golf for many years. A true and genuine friend. He bore his illness with great courage. Gone way too soon."

Another person said: "Gerry was a wonderful man to work with. A great colleague and friend. A pure gentleman. Always helpful in times of trouble. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

Indeed, many have described Gerry as "an absolute gentleman" and a "great character on and off the course."

Gerry will be reposing at Meehan's Funeral Home in Newport from 5.30pm to 7.30pm on Thursday, 3 April. Requiem mass will take place at the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer Newport at 11.30am on Friday, 4 April which can also be livestreamed on the church's website. Burial will follow afterwards at Rockvale Cemetery in Newport.

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