Warm tributes paid on death of fun-loving and kind Mayo man

By Tom Gillespie

THE death has taken place of Tom Toolis, Rowan Drive, Castlebar, and late of Cabaun, Keel, Achill Island.

Aged 71, Tom passed away peacefully in the care of the medical staff at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar, surrounded by his family.

He was predeceased by his parents Michael and Annie, sisters Mary, Bernadette, Margaret and Catherine and brother Patrick (Packie).

Tom, who was a proud islander, is survived by his son Sean, brothers Michael Edward (Australia), Greg, Achill, Eugene and twin brother Edward (Dublin), sister Bridie (Achill), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Tom’s fun-loving nature, kindness and strength touched the lives of all who knew him. He will be remembered and treasured forever by his family and friends.

In his younger days, Tom worked as a machine driver in Dublin and England, and later in the building trade in Castlebar.

Tom was a loyal supporter of Castlebar Celtic, and the club posted the following tribute: “Tom was a familiar face around the club and will be deeply missed by everyone, especially on those memorable away trips.

“His friendship and support and presence meant so much to us all. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Tom’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”

Another posting read: “Tom was one of the first people to have a CB radio in the village in the early 1980s and the digital watch with the blank screen would light up when you pressed the button on the side. I think it was the same one that was on the invisible man programme that was on television in the late 1970s.”

Reposing at Coady’s Funeral Home, Castlebar, this evening (Monday) from 5.30 to 7.30 p.m. Reposing at Sweeney’s Funeral Home, Achill Sound, on Tuesday evening from 5 p.m., with removal at 6.30 p.m. to the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, Dookinella, Keel, arriving at 7 p.m. Mass on Wednesday at 11 a.m., followed by burial in Slievemore Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.