Tributes paid to Tipperary man who died tragically in traffic accident
The late Michael Knightly was laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery in Fethard following his Requiem Mass on Monday
The late Michael Knightly from Lattin and Fethard, who died tragically in a traffic accident near Dundrum last Thursday, has been remembered as a “pure gentleman” and great family man who was highly respected in his local community.
The 54-year-old father-of-two was laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery in Fethard following Requiem Mass at the town's Augustinian Abbey on Monday. The funeral Mass and wake at the family home at Killerk North, Fethard the previous evening were attended by a huge crowd of mourners.
Mr Knightly, who was originally from Shronell House, Lattin, died in a single car collision on the R505 near Dundrum shortly before 5.50pm on July 16. He was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.
He is survived by his devastated family including wife Áine, teenage sons Alec and Sam, his father Joe and siblings Kate and Joseph, nieces and nephews, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Maaike, Kate, Eileen, Thomas and John, extended family and many friends.
Mr Knightly was predeceased by his mother Mary and brothers-in-law Richard and Roddy.
Cllr Michael 'Chicken' Brennan, who was a family friend, said a cloud of gloom has hung over Fethard since news emerged of Michael's tragic death. On behalf of the local community, he extended his deepest condolences to his grieving family.
The Labour councillor said Michael worked at Coolmore Stud's Primus Marketing & Advertising company for 25 years, where he was highly respected. He was involved in Fethard GAA Club as its treasurer for the past six years.
“He was a pure gentleman and very involved in the local community. He was just a lovely person to be around; a nice calm, collected person,” said Cllr Brennan.
Fethard GAA Club cancelled all its matches and training last weekend as a mark of respect and members of the club and local ladies GAA club formed a guard of honour at the funeral as did students from Michael’s sons’ school - the Presentation in Ballingarry.
The GAA club extended its deepest sympathies to Michael’s family and friends.
“Michael was not only our club treasurer for the past six years but was also a valued member of our club.
“Michael’s contribution to Fethard GAA was invaluable and his true commitment to the club was a testament to the gentleman he was.
"Michael’s presence will be sadly missed by the whole community of Fethard,” the club added in the tribute posted on its Facebook page.