Funeral hears Cllr Anthony Waldron has left behind a legacy of good works

Roscommon County Councillor Anthony Waldron has left behind a legacy of good works and has been remembered as a person who personified the word ‘selfless’. He was a man who had great integrity, vision, creativity, and an unwavering sense of justice, his funeral Mass, heard this afternoon.

Hundreds of people gathered this afternoon, Friday, in St. Bride’s Church, Ballintubber to say a final farewell to the Independent councillor who passed away suddenly last Sunday. People had also queued for up to four hours the previous night where he reposed at The Old Schoolhouse, a building which he had fought to save in the village. The Mass was attended by the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Paschal Fitzmaurice and his fellow councillors along with staff of the local authority including Chief Executive Shane Tiernan.

Speaking following the concelebrated Mass his brother, David Waldron stated: “Anthony's dedication to his community and his unwavering commitment to public service have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. It wasn't just a career helping others, it was a vocation for him. His passion for making a difference was evident in every project he undertook or was involved in.” He added: “Anthony had the potential and talent to do whatever he wanted. He chose local community. He worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around him, always putting the needs of others before his own.

“He really was the kindest, gentlest, most good-natured soul. Anthony had many ways of getting things done. He had a deep rooted tenacity and resilience to recover from a setback.” He recalled his brother’s love of St Croan’s where he was a player, coach, supporter and sponsor and also his love of Roscommon and his native Mayo GAA. He had been a great handball player, the congregation heard.

In relation to his community and political work he further stated: “There are some things Anthony had just got started on, so please keep that going in his honour and memory. That is absolutely what he would want, and I'm sure we'll get plenty of volunteers to honour his memory. We will do our best to continue to build on his legacy and show grace, good humour and good nature.” 

Speaking on behalf of Ballintubber community, Bonnie Garvey paid tribute to the late councillor saying: “We were so proud of Anthony when he was elected and of all the work he had done over the years. We just sincerely hope that whoever takes over his mantle will see his many projects come to fruition. Anthony, we will miss your spark, your laughter, your kindness and your dedication and you will be forever etched in the hearts of all those lives you touched.” 

Chief celebrant Fr Julian Lupot referred to Cllr Waldron as a “landmark in Ballintubber” and even though he was considered a “blow in” from his native home of Aghamore, Ballyhaunis he dedicated his life to the local community.

He added that if RTÉ had Liveline and Joe Duffy, Ballintubber had its own Liveline in Cllr Waldon as anyone could ring him 24/7 and “talk to Anthony”.

Symbols of his life were presented at the beginning of the Mass including his mobile phone, football jerseys, his council seal, a manual and wrench and a music CD.

Cllr Waldron was later laid to rest in Aghamore Cemetery this afternoon. He is survived by siblings, Mary, Breege, Sheila, Seamus, Padraic, Trish, Eamon and David, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnephews, grandniece, his good friend Tommy Joe Finnegan, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.