Politicians and representatives of Westmeath County Council were among those who were part of Kieran Molloy's funeral cortege in Athlone today.

Late Athlone councillor was 'a man with his community at heart'

The former long-serving Athlone councillor Kieran Molloy was "a man who had his community at heart, and worked hard for the good of the people that he served," his funeral service was told today (Thursday).

The 80-year-old died on Monday, following an illness, in the care of staff at the South Westmeath Hospice.

His funeral Mass took place this morning, after a removal service attended by several hundred people yesterday evening.

Kieran, of The Courtyard, The Quays, and formerly Connolly Street, Athlone, was a Fianna Fáil representative on Athlone Town Council from 1987 to 2014, and also served on Westmeath County Council from 1991 to 2009.

The chief celebrant of this morning's Mass in Ss Peter and Paul's Church, Fr Bernard Ngalame, told mourners that Kieran had been born in North Westmeath in September 1941, and had moved to Athlone where he married his beloved wife, Anne, almost 50 years ago, in September 1972.

His working life was spent with the ESB, and he went on to become involved in politics and public service, particularly from the 1980s onward.

Fr Ngalame explained that Kieran and Anne had three daughters, Siobhan, Fiona and Ciara, and he was often considered "blessed among women."

One of Kieran's sisters, Sr Cecilia (Maura), spoke about the symbols of his life that were brought to the altar at the beginning of the Mass. These were: A family photo, a newspaper, a long-service award for his work in politics, and a symbol of the Italian saint Padre Pio.

Kieran Molloy, pictured in 2016.

Sr Cecilia outlined the importance of family to Kieran, saying that, right up to his last days, his family would bring a smile to his face.

Speaking about the symbol of the newspaper, she said he had always been very well-informed.

"His comments on current affairs were witty and apt. We think news was his favourite pastime," she said.

"He was good with the detail. He never forgot things, and could put you straight if you had the wrong impression. Many condolences have referred to his attention to detail and to people.

"He was a deep thinker, but he was a very informed person and he didn't lose sight of the current or the simple."

Of his involvement with politics, Kieran's sister said: "Politics might seem a cold word, but in reality it's a very warm action.

"You're very close to people, and very involved. He was involved with health boards, the VEC, prison services and the Lions Club.

"I think he was very happy to be involved with the Lions Club because that brought him in touch with people who were in need, people who needed some form of help, which he gave generously.

"At a time like this, his good works go with him... the Lord will reward him for how he was with the people and particularly the people of Athlone and the people of Westmeath."

On behalf of the family she thanked those who attended the funeral Mass or watched it online, and also expressed gratitude to the "unbelievable" number of people who came to the removal "to pay respects and to say thanks for the various ways he might have helped them or been involved with them. "

In addition to his wife and daughters, Kieran Molloy is survived by his brother Brendan, sisters Sr Cecilia (Maura) and Ita, sons-in-law Cathal and Brian, adoring grandsons Nakori, Jack and Micah, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and many friends.

His burial took place today at Kiltoom cemetery. May he rest in peace.