The late Tony Murphy Hundreds gathered to pay their final respects to the renowned New Ross veterinary surgeon, Tony Murphy, a man who won widespread respect and admiration. Tony, from Castleview Court and formally Maryville, Cross Street, passed away at New Ross Community Hospital on Sunday, June 6. Survived by his wife Lily, sons Philip, Michael, Tony and Paul, daughters Helene, Lisa and Sarah, he was laid to rest on Wednesday last in St Stephen's Cemetery following Requiem Mass at New Ross Parish Church. Born Peter Anthony Murphy at Knockrae House, Adamstown, his passing occurred within a month of his 75th birthday. Throughout his life, he was known as 'Tony' or 'P.A'. Early in his life Tony moved to Wilton Mills, Bree, Enniscorthy with the rest of his family: Phillip and Elena his parents; Tim and Evelyn his siblings, to whom he was devoted. He often recalled his time sharing digs with his sister, Evelyn when they were both under -graduates at university College Dublin. That friendship was to strengthen over the years and he greatly enjoyed their regular visits to one another. In a very quiet way, Tony was an exceptional person. He was an academic prize winner at UCD and the youngest ever veterinary graduate in Ireland and Britain, graduating at the age of just 20. He won a minor and junior title in Gaelic football for Ballyhogue and played rugby for UCD. He was a former captain and honourary life member of New Ross Golf Club, and was also honoured for his services to Coisde Sean Ghael GAA. During a moving tribute to his father and namesake, Tony Jnr. relayed his dad's love of horses and excellence as a veterinary surgeon. 'Like his brothers and sisters, Daddy was passionate about horses, racing them, treating them, or perhaps best of all - backing them! 'He was gifted a gifted and remarkable veterinary surgeon, who made many friends during his forty years in practice. It has been a huge comfort to have seen so many of you over the past weeks,' he said. 'But, what really defined Daddy was his strength, his kindness, his generosity and his sense of fair play. He asked of his children only to go out in the world and be happy. What a wonderful legacy that is. Thanks 'On behalf of Daddy's seven children, eight grandchildren and our husbands, wives and partners, we wish to publicly thank Daddy's beloved wife and our wonderful mother, Lily. Daddy met Mammy at a hunt ball when she was nineteen and a half. 'They were together for 44 years of marriage. For over half that time Daddy was seriously ill with Parkinsons. Mammy was with him throughout his valiant struggle,' he added. Honest Tony described his parents' love as 'honest and deep', emphasising how his mother spent every day with her husband at New Ross community Hospital. 'His eyes lit up when ever he heard her voice. There were times when only she could reach him. 'Daddy remained Mammy's 'fella', her 'boy' as she'd say herself, right until the end. He could not have done it without her, nor could we. We thank you and we love you Mam,' he said. Tony also publicly thanked the entire staff of the Community Hospital who 'occupied' a special place within the family's hearts. 'You never forgot what he was capable of, you kept him singing and you allowed Daddy to spend his last days with dignity and the best possible care.' he emphasised. 'Daddy only ever asked for 'a bit of peace'. We know you now have that Dad,' he concluded. Courtesy of the Wexford People June 2004 Tweet

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