Kilkelly death

Kilkelly shock at sudden death of popular bus driver

Michael Commins

IT was with deep shock and sadness that the people of Kilkelly learned of the sudden death of Patsy Walsh in Swinford last Friday evening. Patsy, of High Street, Kilkelly, was one of the best-known bus drivers in the region and was very well-liked and respected by all age groups.
For many years Patsy brought children to Swinford Secondary School and also to Tavrane National School.
He was renowned for his kindness and courtesy and he had a great rapport with generations of young people who experienced his good nature first hand.
Patsy took ill and died while sitting in his car outside Forkan’s Garage in Swinford. News of his passing was received with regret and disbelief in his native Kilkelly, where Patsy was involved in various community associations over many years.
Large crowds were in attendance at the funeral ceremonies and removal took place from the Marian Funeral Home in Knock on Sunday evening to Kilkelly Church with burial in Culmore Cemetery yesterday (Monday) following concelebrated Requiem Mass.
He is deeply regretted by his wife Rita (nee Dunleavy), daughters Regina and Linda, sons Sean, Gerard and Damien, in-laws, grandchildren, sisters Bridie and Kathleen, relatives, neighbours and friends.