The Late Tom O'Meara The death took place on Thursday , September 1st of Mr Tim O'Meara, Scorduff, Shinrone, causing much sadness to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Tim O'Meara was most certainly one of the best known and most greatly respected men in Shinrone and the extended surrounding area. His greatest passion in life was his family, but outside of that he was a committed and unfailing community man, who gave tirelessly of his energy and time to the benefit of those around him and his legacy is evident in the many areas to which he contributed. In fact, it is said fondly of Tim that he has been Chairman of everything in Shinrone- except the ICA! In the sporting world, Tim was Secretary of the GAA Club in Shinrone and later became Chairman, serving 22 years between the two positions without a break. He was a member of the Offaly Hurling Board for a long number of years. Tim was also a selector of the Offaly County teams and a referee for almost twenty years and he took a special interest in the young players of the parish, encouraging and coaching them to win many Championships and competitions. He was also Chairman of the Shinrone Festival Committee that was famous in the 1950s and 1960s and was a most successful venture with all the leading bands in the country performing in the village. Indeed, on one night alone, 1800 dancers turned up to the marquee! Tim was Chairman of the Parish Committee formed to promote amenities for the people of Shinrone and was instrumental in purchasing 10 acres of land, which was developed and used as a first class GAA and soccer pitch and two tennis courts. As a result of the Stardust tragedy in the early 80s, the old hall in Shinrone became obsolete and it was decided to build a new one. Spearheaded by Tim and an energetic committee, a fine hall was built, which today's caters for every section of the community. A smaller hall was provided two years ago, which caters for indoor hurling, soccer and training. Tim was also very active in the farming community and was Chairman of the Shinrone Branch of the IFA for 10 years along with being Chairman of North Tipperary Executive for two three year periods. He was Chairman of Roscrea Bacon Factory for twenty years of the Roscrea Cattle Mart and its Chairman for 18 years. Tim also bred and raced greyhounds, winning many cups and stakes, notably with "Nameless Island', which won seven open stakes and "Scorfuff Champion", which won the Whitsuntide Cup at Shelbourne Park. Speaking at his funeral in Shinrone, Tim's daughter, Senator Kathleen O'Meara said while the family was grieving for Tim, they were also celebrating his life, which was lived in full. "We are very proud of Daddy and proud of all he did in his life, she said. Kathleen recalled thar wherever people gathered to do something for the community, her father was there to support them and , in many cases, to lead them. 'Many people have asked me how did he manage to do all he did and run the family farm as well', said Kathleen, 'and the answer is very simple- because he had Mammy behind him, supporting him in all he did, talking things through and always being there at his side. She continued, 'Daddy was a great leader, but he never sought greatness. He only wanted to be a contributor. He saw what needed to be done in the community and he got on with doing it but in such a way that people gathered around him and wanted to be on the team with him. He was a great team player. He was practical and simple in his approach and wanted to get things done. He was innovative and always looked to the future, especially around farming. He was a man who met challenges head on, with fortitude, determination and faith. Sincere sympathy is extended to Tim's wife Kathleen, son Sean, daughters Marie, Aileen, Kathleen, Noreen, Brid and Aine, sister Madge, brothers Doney and Liam, grandchildren,family, relatives, neighbours and many many friends. May he rest in peace. Courtesy of the Midland Tribune 10th September 2005 Tweet

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