Wright, Paddy
January 13, 2011The funeral mass of Cllr Paddy Wright in Athy took place.
Hundreds of mourners packed St Michael's Church in Athy to pay their last respects to the long standing Sinn Fein public representative and community activist.
Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams was among the mourners, along with representatives and community activist.
Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams was among the mourners, along with representatives of several community groups and local politicians.
A photograph of Paddy Wright, the grave digger adorned his coffin, along with a Manchester United and Celtic Jersey, his hallmark cap, a copy of The Irish Times and the Athy town council flag.
Parish Priest Fr Gerry Tanham paid tribute to Paddy and the community of Athy. "Every spectrum of the community is represented here today. It is a great tribute," he said, adding that paddy was "full of life, not just existing", and he was never afraid to stand up for what he believed in.
His nephew Ronnie thanked the people of Athy for the support they have shown his family since his uncle's death last Friday, in particular Clonmullion Soccer Club, where Paddy was one of the founding members.
"He lived a simple life. A life to help other people. He was a character, a rare character. I bet he is up there in heaven trying to get elected. He did not suffer fools easily," He said, He described his uncles grave digging work and his huge interest in politics. "The newspaper became his microphone…. The heated debates, he enjoyed them and lived for them."
Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams did not make a speech at the funeral, as Paddy's family prefereed for it to be non-political. Speaking to the Leader afterwards, Mr Adams extended his sincerest sympathy to the great love and affection in which Paddy was held.
"I have known Paddy Wright for many years. He was a stalwart republican activist who was our longest serving elected representative. Paddy was elected as a councillor in 1979 and was a well known and respected representative. I remember on one famous occasion Paddy ran in the election under the slogan 'Vote Paddy Wright - the last man to let you down.
"Paddy's death is a huge blow to his family and to his friends and comrades in Sinn Fein. He was a sound republican, a wonderful representative of Sinn Fein and a stalwart supporter of the peace process. He was also a great arguer and his craic and insights will be sadly missed," Mr Adams concluded.
Outside the church, hundreds of people lined the streets to say their last farewell. The funeral courtege was led by Athy Town Council representatives, Castlemitchell GAA club and the Wright family. It stopped for a minutes silence outside McEvoy's Pub, where Paddy has his last pint, before the final journey to St Michael's Cemetery.
Cllr Paddy Wright is survived by his sister Annie and brothers John, Noel and Brendan.
Courtesy of the Leinster Leader 13/1/11 Tweet
