West Mayo mourns Hall of Famer farmer, remembered as a ‘true gentleman’

THE news of the passing of Tommie Keane of Cullentragh, Drimulra, Newport, Co. Mayo, has been received with sadness around the local community in Newport and by his many friends throughout the region and among the cattle breeding fraternity.

Tommie died peacefully and was surrounded by his loving family. He spent his final days in the wonderful care of the dedicated staff at Mayo Hospice in Castlebar, where he was afforded great dignity and comfort.

Tommie's passing has brought profound sadness to all who knew him — a man who was cherished by his family, respected by his neighbours, and warmly regarded throughout his community.

He is predeceased by his parents, Tom and Mary, and his brother John Pat. He will be deeply missed and remembered with enduring love by his devoted wife Teresa; his daughters Patricia and Aisling; his sons David and Raymond; sons-in-law Darren and Blaine; daughter-in-law Niamh; and his nine cherished grandchildren, Shona, Caragh, Doireann, Cianan, Aoife, Michaela, Ethan, Halle and Jack. Tommie is also survived by his brother Pat and sisters Margaret, Kathleen, Mary, Ann and Julie, along with a wide circle of relatives, neighbours and friends whose lives he touched.

The Keane family extends its heartfelt gratitude for the kindness and support shown to them at this difficult time.

Hall of Fame

Tommie was a big and well regarded figure in The Irish Charolais Cattle Society and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2024.

In an extensive tribute, the society wrote: "We were very sad to hear of the passing of Charolais breeder Tommie Keane from Newport in Co. Mayo.

"Below is his story that we'd like to share today .... In the 1970’s, he embarked on a life changing journey like so many Irish at the time, leaving behind his homeland to seek opportunities in the bustling city of New York. There he immersed himself in the world of construction, honing his skills and gaining valuable experience that would shape his future endeavours.

"Tommie's thirst for adventure meant his next chapter took him to the rugged landscapes of Alaska where he joined the workforce on a monumental project – the construction of a pipeline from the North slopes of Alaska to Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city in the south-central part of the state on the Cook inlet. It was one of the most significant jobs in the world at the time. It was in the crucible of this challenging environment that Thomas’s work ethic and determination shone brightly earning him respect and admiration from his peers.

"In 1980, after years of hard work and dedication in foreign lands, Tommie made the heartfelt decision to return to his roots in Ireland. It was a homecoming filled with joy and new beginnings, as he embarked on a new chapter of his life. It was here that he found his love and companionship, marrying his beloved wife Teresa in 1981. This was a union that would provide unwavering support and encouragement throughout his endeavours.

"Upon his return to Ireland Tommie purchased land and delved into the world of farming, starting with sheep as his first venture. The turning point in Tommie's agricultural journey came in 1994 when he made a fateful decision to purchase his first Charolais heifer from a farmer in Co Clare, paying a substantial sum of £3,000 Irish pound at the time.

"This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his farming career, as he ventured into the world of Charolais cattle breeding.
Since that pivotal moment, Tommie has established himself as a formidable force in the world of Charolais cattle breeding, consistently producing top-class bulls and heifers renowned for their superior genetics and exceptional traits. His commitment to excellence and dedication to the craft have seen his bulls being sought after and sent to various corners of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England, solidifying his reputation as a breeding pioneer.

"Tommie continued his legacy in Charolais cattle breeding alongside his son David, passing down his knowledge, expertise, and passion for the industry to the next generation. As they worked hand in hand, father and son embody the spirit of tradition and innovation ensuring that the legacy of excellence in Charolais cattle breeding lasts for years to come.
May he rest in peace

Pure gentleman

Burrishoole GAA Club also wished to extend their sincere condolences to the Keane family on the passing of Tommie.
The club wrote that “Tommie, father of our Bord na nÓg Chairman Davy, was a familiar face in McGovern Park over many years.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Keane family at this very sad time, as we remember the true gentleman that was Tommie. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Among the many people to voice their sympathies to the family was Anita Loftus who extended her deepest sympathies to all at this most heartbreaking time: "My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May Tommie's gentle soul rest in eternal peace."

Sally Kennedy also extended her deepest sympathy to the Keane family: "May you find comfort in the love and memories you shared with Tommie, and may God grant you strength during this difficult time."

Margaret Mulchrone joined the chorus of well wishers online writing: “Our sincere sympathy to Teresa, Trish, Aisling, David and Raymond, and all the Keane family on the death of Tommy. He was a pure gentleman and always had time for everyone. Thinking of you all. May Tommy rest in peace.”

Maureen Keane posted: “Tommie was a pure gentleman and will be forever missed. God grant you comfort in your difficult days ahead.”

Funeral details
Tommie will repose at St Dominick's Funeral Home, Newport (F28 H682) on Friday evening, February 20, from 5.30pm until 7.30pm.

Removal will take place from his residence on Saturday morning, February 21, to the Church of the Holy Family, Fahy, arriving for Funeral Mass at 11.30am, with burial to follow in Fahy Cemetery. The house is private, please.

Family flowers only are requested. Those who wish to make a donation in Tommie's memory are asked to consider contributing to Mayo-Roscommon Hospice (https://www.hospice.ie/donations/) or Motor Neurone Disease Ireland (https://www.mndi.ie/donate/).

For those who are unable to attend in person, Tommie's Funeral Mass can be viewed via the church livestream at https://www.churchtv.ie/fahy/.