TRIBUTES have poured in across this week for a former member of An Garda Síochána who was killed in a road traffic collision in the west of County Limerick this past Sunday (January 12).
The deceased, named locally as John “Johnny” Reidy, was a much-loved and popular native of Shanbally, Kerry Road, in Abbeyfeale, County Limerick. He died after he was struck by a vehicle as he was crossing New Street in the town.
The tragic incident happened just minutes away from the home of Mr Reidy, who was in his 70s, at around 9pm on January 12.
Gardaí at Newcastle West Garda Station (069 20 650) appealed for witnesses, along with anyone who may have video or dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident which might assist the Garda investigation into the fatal collision.
Close family friend, Fianna Fáil councillor for the area, and former mayor of Limerick, Francis Foley, said that “it’s a terrible loss for Johnny’s wife Marie, the whole town is numbed and shocked at Johnny’s sad passing. All our thoughts and prayers and sympathies are obviously with the family.”
Cllr Foley said that the late Mr Reidy “was a member of An Garda Síochána, and from a very quiet, very genuine family which has run a bicycle repairs and lawnmowers service in the area since the 1940s.”
Another local councillor, Liam Galvin (FG), said Mr Reidy was a “well-known character about the town of Abbeyfeale, well-liked, well-respected, and he was the most interesting man to talk to, he was a most intelligent man.”
Cllr Galvin said Mr Reidy “was only a minute’s walk from his own house, crossing into his own house about 30 meters away” when the tragic incident happened.
“It’s sad, he was a nice man,” added Mr Galvin.
Mr Reidy’s remains reposed at Harnett’s Funeral Home on The Square in Abbeyfeale, from 6pm-8pm, on Wednesday.
His funeral mass will take place at the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale from 11am this Thursday morning (January 16), followed by private cremation.
Mr Reidy is survived by his wife beloved Marie, and sons Michael and Eamonn, along with brothers Michael, Paddy, Noel, Paul, and Kevin, sister Marie, brothers and sisters-in-law, and a wide network of family and friends.
He is pre-deceased by his son Seán and parents Michael and Josephine.
