Sadness at death of former Athlone lecturer and Friary volunteer

There was much sadness in Athlone and beyond when news emerged of the death of Paul Blackie yesterday (Tuesday).

Mr Blackie, of Lissywollen, Ballymahon Road, was a retired lecturer who worked in the Engineering section of the former Athlone Institute of Technology.

He was also active in the local community, most notably as one of the key volunteers in helping to maintain the operation of the former Franciscan Friary church in Athlone.

He was a highly regarded figure in the Athlone area, renowned for his kindness and thoughtfulness towards others.

Mr Blackie's death occurred peacefully in the care of staff at the Mater Hospital, Dublin, on Thursday.

Formerly of Liverpool, UK, he is sadly missed by his loving wife Anne, daughters Sarah, Fiona and Caitriona, his brother Edmund, sons-in-law Jesús, Francis and Jesús, grandchildren Lucía, Daniel, Oisín, Seán, Sofía, Oliver and Adam, nephews, nieces, in-laws, relatives, neighbours and many friends.

His remains will repose at Flynn's Funeral Home, The Strand, this Sunday evening from 3pm until 5pm, while his Funeral Mass will be held in St Anthony's Franciscan Church on Monday at 11am, followed by burial afterwards in Coosan Cemetery.

Family flowers only are requested with donations, if desired, in lieu to the Society of St Vincent de Paul.

May he rest in peace.