'His service is woven into the fabric of Birr': Tributes paid to late Frank McNamara

Tributes have been paid today (Wednesday) following news of the passing of a man described as "part of the fabric of Birr".

The late Francis (Frank) McNamara, of Elmgrove, Birr, passed away peacefully yesterday, Tuesday, March 17, in the loving care of his daughter Cliodhna, in his 93rd year.

Predeceased by his beloved wife Philomena (née Fitzgerald), Mr McNamara was a respected national school teacher, and widely acknowledged to have played a vital role in many activities to benefit the town of Birr.

In a tribute today (Wednesday), Birr Theatre & Arts Centre paid tribute to one of its most loved members.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Frank. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of Birr Theatre & Arts Centre, leading the team with vision and determination.

"This was just one of the many community initiatives he championed throughout his life which included Birr Agricultural Show in the 50s and 60s, Birr Stage Guild, Birr Vintage Week and Birr Swimming Pool,” the tribute read.

“His generous spirit and unwavering commitment to the people of Birr shaped our town in countless ways.

"Frank gave his time, energy and passion wholeheartedly, always striving to strengthen community life and support the arts he cared for so deeply. His legacy of dedication and service will forever be woven into the fabric of Birr, inspiring us for generations to come.

"We are profoundly grateful for his friendship, forever indebted to his generosity and commitment and for the lasting impact he made on our community. Frank will be greatly missed but never forgotten," it added.

Mr McNamara is predeceased by his wife Philomena, his daughter Mary, brother Patrick, sisters Ann (O’Brien) and Esther (Feeney), son-in-law Tom Munnelly, brother’s-in-law and sister’s-in-law.

His passing is deeply regretted by his loving children; Siobhan, Fergal, Niamh, Cliodhna and Brian, daughters-in-law Karla, Patricia and Orla, his grandchildren Orlaith, Ronan, Róisin, Doireann, Mayte, Caitríona, Eimear, Aisling, Kevin and Jennifer, great-grandchildren Mia and Cian, his sister Majella (Duffy), sister’s-in-law, brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, kind neighbours, great friends and wonderful carers.

Mr McNamara will be reposing in his daughter Cliodhna’s house (Riverstown, Birr R42 H500) on Thursday from 5pm to 8pm.

His funeral Mass will be held this Friday, March 20 in St Brendan’s Church, Birr at 2.30pm. followed by burial in Clonoghill Cemetery, Birr.

May he rest in peace.