Gibbons, Tommy
August 04, 2009Tom's sudden death has left his island in shock and grief, and has affected the wider mainland community. Very well known in fishing, farming, sailing and GAA circles, Tom's passing left all that knew him saddened. His gentle, humble nature and quiet kindness set Tom apart as someone many were proud to know.
Tom worked periodically on fish farms along the west coast and enjoyed short breaks away - supporting the Mayo football team, travelling to sailing events and visiting friends on other islands - but was never tempted to move from his much-loved island home.
In his youth, Tom played football with the Kilmeena club. Always an ardent supporter of the Mayo men's and ladies' football teams, he loved going to matches with friends to cheer the teams on.
Tom's family on Innishlyre have been associated with maritime activities for generations. Tom fished for shrimp, lobsters and oysters for many years, participated in sea angling and attended many meetings to discuss the concerns of fishermen.
In recent years Tom undertook the caretaking of Inish Gort lighthouse, as well as delivering the post to the inner bay islands.
A long association with the Glenans Sailing School provided Tom with employment as their ferryman, but also much enjoyment, as did his work with the Mayo Yacht club, where he captained the starter boat for their races. Tom formed many close friendships with both groups, often socialising with them outside the world of boating.
Always aware of the dangers surrounding those who take to sea, Tom kept a keen eye out for anyone in trouble on the water. No matter how severe the weather, or hour of the day, he went to the aid of any mariner, novice or seasoned sailor. It isn't known how many sailors he guided to safety over the years, or how many boats, broken free from their moorings during storms, he helped pull from the shores of Clew Bay.
Tom reared cattle and sheep on Inishlyre and was interested in national and regional farming issues. He had many close friendships with farmers on the mainland, always willling to give them a hand when needed, and they were happy to reciprocate. Being a farmer is difficult on the mainland; being an island farmer presents extra challenges. Tom always appreciated the help given by his friends.
The public expression of grief during the wake for Tom on Inishlyre and at his funeral in Kilmeena demonstrated the extraordinary love and respect people had for him. A large fleet of boats from all parts of Clew Bay and Clare Island ferried sympathisers to the island for two days and nights. His remains, brought to the mainland by his brother Joe in the punt they both used daily, were accompanied by a flotilla of about 40 boats of all description. Several hundred sympathisers and guards of honour, representing organisations that Tom supported, met the funeral party at Rosmoney pier.
Fr Jim Walsh led the funeral Mass, assisted by Fr Atty Devine, cousin of the deceased, Fr Jim Staunton and the late Fr Willie Spicer. The congregation, which overflowed from the church heard Fr Walsh speak warmly of Tom's love of his home, family, friends and the sea. Tom's nephews, PJ, John and Brendan, nieces Roisin and Sheila, sisters Irene and Sally and Charlie Meagher from Newry, offered readings and prayers. The St Brendan's Church choir led the congregation in hymns. The service concluded with a touching tribute from Tom's nephew Thomas, who sang 'The Voyage'. Following prayers in the graveyard, the Mulloy brothers and John Graham performed one of Tom's favourite songs, 'Fiddler's Green.'
Tom is survived by his sisters Sheila, Irene and Sally, his brother Joe, his aunt Catherine Brown, brothers-in-law George Keeley and Herbert Van den Burg, sister-in-law Rhoda Twombly, nephews Brendan, Thomas, John, PJ and Gerard and nieces Karen, Roisin and Sheila. He was predeceased by his sister Mary Teresa.
Tom Gibbons' Month's Mind Mass will be celebrated at St Brendan's Church, Myna on August 12 at 8pm.
May his gentle soul have peaceful rest.
- August 4th, 2009 Tweet
