Former Offaly person of the year Kieran Keenaghan mourned

Kieran Keenaghan, a hugely popular retired Offaly businessman, engineer and historian, has died.

Mr Keenaghan passed away yesterday (Thursday) at his home in Feeghs, Banagher, surrounded by his family.

A native of Lumcloon, Cloghan, he was one of the founders of Banagher Concrete in the 1970s, going on to play a pivotal role in the growth of the company, where he served as Managing Director.

He was also heavily involved in GAA activities both with his local club, St Rynagh's, and at county level.

In 1996 he was awarded the Offaly 'Person of the Year' honour in 1996 in recognition of his "outstanding contributions to the economic, sporting and cultural aspects of his local community and entire county over a long number of years".

He recently collaborated with retired primary school teacher James Scully on a book exploring the meaning behind the regularly used phrase 'That Beats Banagher'. The book was launched less than a year ago, in June 2025.

Kieran Keenaghan was predeceased by his beloved parents, Kieran and Kitty, son Barry, brother Paddy and sisters Eileen (Kerin) and Sr Anna Maria (USA).

He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his loving family, his wife Sheila and children Raymond, Julian and Kate, brother Oliver, cherished grandchildren Conor, Rossa, Tom, Julia, Cayden, Rose, Sam and June, daughters in law and son in law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.

He will be reposing at his daughter Kate's house (R42 HW28) in Banagher tomorrow (Saturday, April 18) from 3pm to 6pm.

His removal will take place on Sunday afternoon, to arrive to St Rynagh’s Church, Banagher, for 2pm Mass followed by a private cremation on Monday.

May he rest in peace.