There was deep shock in Shroid and the surrounding areas with the unexpected death of Sean Farrelly. Sean, who died suddenly on October 11 while working on his farm, was aged just 48 years. He was born in Longford in February 1959 and attended St Michael's National School and St Mel's College where he obtained an honours leaving Certificate. Making the decision to go into farming instead of attending university was an easy one for Sean, despite the protestations of many of his teachers at St. Mel's. A number of years later he put his farming life on hold while he studied at DCU where he graduated with a degree in Business Studies. From an early age he showed great interest in cattle. Some of the earliest memories his brothers and sisters have of him is as a five year old Sean before breakfast walking barefooted in his pyjamas through the farmyard, to check the calves. It wasn't long before he was a good judge of livestock, and this developed into an enthusiastic interest in the breeding of pedigree cattle. He won many awards for his stock over the years and on many occasions he was invited to join judging committees at agricultural shows throughout Ireland. In recent years Sean established Shroid Developments and devoted much of his energy in the pursuit of his dream, which was to develop a technology campus on his land. He was actively engaged in the planning process right up to the day of his sudden death. Sean was devoted to his family. He married Ann Rough from Clogh, Kilkenny in 1989, and they have six children, Patricia, Estelle, John, Maria, Claire and Catherine. He was predeceased by another daughter, Mary. He was tremendously interested in sport, and played football for Shroid Slashers in his youth. He was a particular admirer of Kerry football, Kilkenny hurling and Liverpool soccer. One of his favourite pass-times was spending long evenings in conversations with family, friends or neighbours, sometimes into day break as they discussed farming, sport or politics. His interest in, and knowledge of, the business world was extensive and his expertise in the preparation of farming accounts was something he liked to share with others. Sean died on October 11, the same date on which his mother Patricia, predeceased him one year ago. Along with Ann and the children, he is survived by his sisters Mary, Ursula (his twin) and Catherine and his brothers Matt, Pat, Fintan and Michael. Courtesy of the Longford Leader. 2 September, 2007. Tweet

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