Tributes paid to popular Tipperary man who was 'a gentleman'

Tributes are being paid to popular Thurles man Thomas O’Brien, who passed away on Sunday, July 20.

‘Skinner,’ as he was known around the town, Thomas’ death came as a major shock to the community.

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Speaking on Thomas’ passing, Thurles Rugby Club posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, saying: “We lost a great friend on Sunday last and Thurles lost one of its greatest characters. Skinner was a stalwart of Thurles Rugby club. He was involved in all aspects of club life, a player, a member of the senior committee and both the Pitch Committee and Campervan Committee, he was hugely popular in all his roles and his contribution was invaluable.

“Thomas ‘Skinner’ O’Brien started playing with Thurles RFC in November 1980 and started a long association with the club at all levels playing in an O’Connor U20 final in 1981 to retiring from playing as second team captain through injury in 1995 after leading the seconds to Casey cup glory the previous year. After a great season in 1992 in which he won an Evans & Gleeson Cup he was rewarded with providing cover in the front row in which he could play in all positions but usually prop in the history making Challenge Cup winning team of 1993 and was also on the first Junior team to beat a Senior team UCC in the Munster Senior Cup the same year.

“Skinner took over as Club Treasurer in 1993 and remained there for ten years overseeing great developments within the Club. In 1998 Skinner was awarded the Club Person of the year.

“Skinner was the consummate club man, always friendly, good for a laugh, happy to do any task required, lining the field, painting the goalposts, rounding up and minding strays on tour when they would get lost or worse. His presence along the sidelines on gameday was always a reason for a chat or joke or a headshake when things weren’t going well.

“Skinner was a true friend, and to all of us who had the privilege of his friendship will be forever at a loss with his passing.

“To Joan, Sandra, James, and his grandchildren we extend our deepest sympathies at your loss.”

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Tributes have flooded in on rip.ie, with one person saying: “Everyone knew Skinner in Thurles Rugby Club,his commitment as a player and later as an administrator to the club was exceptional. A true gentleman and a friend to all.”

Another said: “A gem of a school mate, always up for a laugh, felt so positive and uplifted to be in his company.”

Another remarked on the quality of his character, saying: “Shocking and sad news to hear. We both served with Thomas affectionately called Skinner in Thurles Fca that was the 16th HM Bty, where Thomas was a character, a legend and a good decent caring person, kind to all. Uplifting with a bit of fun laughter and mischief. I later knew Thomas when he was a barman in the Monks, where he graciously plied his trade at the bar bringing good humour to all. Again sad news of Thomas passing. My condolences to his family. Dear Thomas had that unique presence with a heart of gold, intelligent and thoughtful to others. One of the good ones, a legend and character with that special presence. Will be sadly missed. God blessed you Thomas and thanks for the glory days with Thurles Fca.”