Kilkelly has lost one of its greatest characters with the death of Stephen Tarpey, writes Marian Duggan. Mr Tarpey, aged 88, was synonymous with the East Mayo town, having operated a grocery store at The Square since 1954. He was the 'go to' man for visitors to the town, especially those researching their family history.
Born and reared in the town centre, Stephen's father was a tailor and his mother a teacher. Stephen and his wife Peggy took over the family premises in 1954 and opened the grocers.
When he wasn't out on the road working as a rep selling whiskey, Stephen could be found behind the shop's meat counter with Peggy at the till doing the calculations. In recent years, the couple, who celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this year, worked alongside their son Kieran and his family.
Stephen was one of Mayo's biggest football supporters and had hoped 2013 was the year to end the All Ireland title famine. He was unique in that he attended all three winning All Ireland Finals - 1936, 1950 and 1951 and was one of three selectors on the winning Mayo minor team of 1966.
Stephen is survived by his loving wife Peggy, daughters Mary and Connie and sons Stephen, Declan, Sean and Kieran; grandchildren, extended family and many friends.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.

Western People, 23rd December 2013 Tweet

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