Sean's Bar in Athlone to close as mark of respect after death of "our friend and owner"

Athlone's best-known pub, Sean's Bar, has announced that it will be closed all day tomorrow (Thursday) as a mark of respect following the death of its owner, Phil Byrne.

There was great shock and sadness at the sudden passing of Mr Byrne, a married father of three, at his home on Friday last, October 18.

Mr Byrne was well-known both for his ownership of Sean's Bar and for his involvement in horse racing.

The funeral Mass of the Dublin native and Clonbrusk, Athlone, resident will be held in Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Coosan, at 12 noon on Thursday.

In a socal media post, Sean's Bar said: "It is with great sadness and regret that our friend and owner of Sean's Bar, Phil Byrne, passed away last weekend.

"As a mark of respect the pub will be closed all day on Thursday, October 24.

"We would like to thank everyone for their messages of support and condolences over the past few days which is very much appreciated. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam."

Mr Byrne is survived by his wife Cathy, children Charlie, Evan and Dayna, his mother Joan, sisters, Catherine, Anne and Yvonne, his brother Ray, parents-in-law Noeleen and Shay, and his extended family, staff and friends.

May he rest in peace.