Tributes paid to beloved Moate community figure Paul Nestor
By Rebekah O'Reilly
The community of Moate and the surrounding areas is in mourning following the passing of beloved local figure Paul Nestor.
Paul passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 12, at the age of 83, in the care of the Coronary Care Unit at Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore, surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his beloved wife and best friend, Margaret (Maggie), whose loss he carried with quiet dignity in recent years.
A deeply respected and much-loved member of the community, Paul is mourned by his daughters Nicola and Paula, son-in-law Mark, and cherished granddaughter Lauren, as well as his brother Johnny (Bastic), sisters Maggie (Simpson), Cissy (Coughlan), Angela (McCormack) and Carmel (Browne). He will also be missed by his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Over several decades, Paul was a driving force behind numerous initiatives, always working quietly but effectively to make Moate a better place for everyone.
Through his role as a FÁS Community Employment Scheme supervisor, Paul left a lasting legacy. In the 1990s, he and his team became a familiar and welcome sight around the town, planting flowers, maintaining public spaces, and enhancing the local environment.
He had a particular passion for the town’s festive spirit, overseeing the erection of Moate’s first Christmas lights and tending with pride to the crib at the Station Road junction each year.
His work extended beyond the day-to-day. Paul was instrumental in the establishment and success of Tuar Ard Arts Centre, where he served faithfully as a member of the Board of Directors. His commitment never wavered over the years, and his attention to detail and deep sense of responsibility were key to the centre’s enduring presence in the community.
Paul was also known for his wit and warmth, particularly at the annual November Auction, where he loved the chat, the atmosphere, and the people. He had a word for everyone and brought a sense of ease and camaraderie wherever he went.
His friends and former colleagues at Moate Community Development Association and Tuar Ard Arts Centre paid heartfelt tribute to a man they described as “the very embodiment of community spirit.”
In a heartfelt tribute, they said:
“Paul’s contribution to community development can never be measured simply in tasks completed or projects achieved. It lives instead in the spirit of friendship, service and pride he instilled in all of us. He had a deep desire to bring his best to every situation he was involved in and to the people with whom he associated. He was not just a colleague, but a true gentleman and a friend, and we will miss him deeply.”
As Moate prepares to mark 25 years of Tuar Ard, Paul Nestor’s name will be remembered among those who shaped its story, not with fanfare, but with steadfast devotion and a deep love for his community.
Paul will repose at his home (N37 XE17) on Tuesday, October 14, from 4pm to 8pm. Removal will take place on Wednesday morning, October 15, to St Patrick’s Church, Moate, arriving for Funeral Prayers at 11.50am, followed by Funeral Mass at 12 noon. Burial will take place afterwards in Kilcurley Cemetery, Tubber.
May he rest in peace.