Killawalla
The death has taken place recently of Paddy Butler, Killawalla, a member of a long established family in the locality. Son of the late Tom and Mary Ellen Butler, he grew up to appreciate the wonder of the natural world around him.
He received his national school education in Killawalla NS. Paddy was blessed with a creative pair of hands with which he made some beautiful pieces of timber works. A philosophical man by nature, he enjoyed reminiscing about days gone by and enjoyed telling stories of human interest.
In 1981 he married Ann Kelly and the couple were blessed with three children.
Paddy loved nature and had a great respect for the countryside, with a particular appreciation of the mountains, rivers and treelands. All of those creations according to Paddy enhanced the countryside with a unique beauty.
He was supportive of all of the community initiatives which took place in the locality down through the years. He took a particular interest in the development of the car park opposite his local church. Paddy made land available for this community car park and was delighted when the mature tree opposite to the church was retained to enhance the entire development project.
He was a talented carpenter and the beautiful timber structures such as the replica of an Irish thatched cottage he made bore witness to his keen eye for detail and perfection his projects..
His sporting interests were reflected in his support for his local Ballintubber G.A.A club and the Mayo football team. He also took a particular interest in boxing.
His funeral took place from Killawalla Community Centre to the local church and after Requiem Mass, concelebrated by Fr Frank Fahey, Fr Michael Farragher and Fr Michael Tracey he was laid to rest in the local cemetery. During the Mass the lessons were read by Sheila Gibbons and Hanna King.
The responsorial psalm was sung by Marion Hoban and the Prayers of the Faithful were prayed by Hannah King and Marita Murtagh.
Gifts reflecting aspects of Paddy’s life were carried to the altar by Michael Butler, Jonathan Chambers and Rita King.
After Requiem Mass he was laid to rest in the local cemetery.
To his wife Ann, daughters Katie and Alice and his son Michael, sister Mary, brother Michael (Australia), brothers-in-law Richard Kelly (Newport) and John Kelly (London), sister-in-law Eileen Kelly (London) and his many other cousins, relatives and friends we extend our sincerest sympathies. May his gentle soul rest in peace.
