ANTHONY JOHN FRANCIS (TONY) O'REILLY

Condolence Book for

ANTHONY JOHN FRANCIS (TONY) O'REILLY

Kildare

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Sincere condolences to the O’Reilly family on the sad passing of the truly remarkable Tony O’Reilly.
A great Irishman who made an enormous contribution to this country at a time of huge change. He inspired, motivated, taught, mentored, and guided so many people. His legacy will endure.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
— Brian Cremin
My wife, Keyna, and I were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the great Tony O'Reilly and offer our condolences to all his family. Tony's extraordinary life, marked by his significant contributions to humanitarian causes, has left an indelible mark. His role in establishing the Ireland fund will most notably last many years.

We had the privilege of spending a weekend with Tony in his Glandore home, when I partnered him on the tennis court, hard to believe now!

He also greatly supported my efforts to secure funding for the Belvedere Youth Club and then for Belvedere College.

Tony's loss is profound. He was 'Some Kinda Man'.

May he rest in peace.

Paddy & Keyna McEvoy
— Paddy McEvoy
Deepest sympathies to the O’Reilly family on the passing of your father Tony. He inspired me since I first met him over 50 years ago as an early teenager when he was a regular caller to my parents’ house. A truly inspiration leader both in sport and in business and a great ambassador for Ireland, always playing the ball and not the man. A fantastic raconteur, knowledgeable on many topics and great fun to be around.
May he rest in peace
— Robert Rowlette, Sligo
Sincere Condolences to the O’Reilly family.

I recall years ago while visiting my elderly mother. I noticed a rather lovely vase of flowers, she told me that “they were from Tony O’ Reilly” given to all the older people who had attended a social event in the town. It always struck me how incredibly kind & thoughtful this act of generosity was & truly spoke volumes of the man himself. May you rest in eternal peace.
— Kilcullen Resident
A great man, admired him for years. However the way he interfered in the 1997 general election with the headline in the indo the day before polling was unforgiveable.
— John, wexford
Deepest condolences on the passing of Mr. O'Reilly. My mother, Josephine Kinsella worked with Gavin for many years and on a few occasions she met Tony and always described him as a true gentleman. RIP
— Eithne Kinsella
And nobody should forget the mogul looking for a global site to manufacture fast cars, who was invited to Pittsburgh and where, well, a meitheal of Irish measure fayre got the measure of him – fact!

Times weren’t as good and tax payers were spared from what subsequently cost our neighbours £100m+, maybe rubbing shoulders with Behan played a role! Is túisce deoch an scéal maith, a drink precedes a good story - and so we also took Irish storytelling to a different level; out foxed in, by, Fox Chapel!
— Brendan, Ballyfireside
I knew Tony for many years & it was always the greatest pleasure to meet him & talk over old times. He was wonderful company, a generous host and an utter gentleman. His contribution to Ireland is akin to his Lion’s try scoring record - unparalleled. His loss will be immense. To his family I send my deepest sympathy. Rest well Tony.
— Edmund Van Esbeck
RIP Sir Anthony. Sincere sympathy to your Children, their spouses and families. If is difficult to separate the man from his career. You achieved so much in your lifetime, between sport and business. Your family was always central to you life and your legacy will always live on through them. At this time of great loss and sadness, we think of them. You left big shoes to fill. We hope the love and memories during your life will fill them with with joy. That they always remember how blessed they are to have such a role model and parent. May God bless them and give strength to his loved ones in the lonely weeks and months ahead.
— Noeleen
Heartfelt condolences to the O'Reilly family on the passing of Anthony, an inspirational leader & a wonderful raconteur. My thoughts & prayers are with you all. To live in the hearts of others is to always be alive in those we leave behind.
— Richard McAuliffe
Gavin & O ‘Reilly& Family.
We met Gavin a few times through mutual friendships and I’m particularly delighted to have met your Dad with members of Co.Carlow FC including my late Father and the great Tom ‘ Bloody ‘O’Brien from Bective RFC before joining Carlow . He even made boots for your Late Dad in his tannery .I admired your Dad from afar and what a life he had … Not sure I will see an Irish man we will ever admire so much who wore the Irish ☘️ Flag always.
Thank you for the memories I have in Castlemartin on Stephen’s Day and from afar.

Sir Anthony O'Reilly, a man of many talents and accomplishments,
A titan in the business world, with visionary investments,
From humble beginnings, he rose to great heights,
A leader, a pioneer, shining bright lights.

A masterful entrepreneur, with a keen eye for success,
He built empires and created opportunities, nothing less,
His ventures spanned industries far and wide,
A true trailblazer, with innovation as his guide.

Not just a businessman, but a sportsman too,
With rugby in his blood, he wore the green with pride so true,
A captain on the field, a leader by example,
His passion for the game, simply unmistakable.

Though time may pass, and seasons change,
Your impact endures, a legacy so strange,
We salute you, Sir Anthony, for all that you've done,
Your spirit lives on, shining like the sun.

Rest in peace, Sir Anthony O'Reilly.
— David Lalor
Tony, you will be remembered by many people and your name recalled by history as a genuine Irish guy who earned your national and international achievements and respect by leading fearlessly from the front at many different levels, including family. Ireland is proud of your Olympian and competitive performance, and the personal legacy you have left your family and admirers to live up to. With your busy live over Tony, may the memory of you inspire others, to live up to their potential in business and life. May you rest in eternal peace.
— Pat Keating
Deepest sympathies to all the family on the sad passing of your Dad,a gentleman, his kindness and Caroline’s to me many years ago ,will always be appreciated,may he rest in peace
— Marie Supple Athy
Sincere sympathy to the O’Reilly family on the sad passing of your father Tony. He contributed enormously to the Irish Dairy Industry with the successful launch of the Kerrygold butter brand in USA, May he rest in peace
— Vincent Buckley former chairman IDB
May I offer my condolences to the extended O’Reilly Family on your recent sad loss. Ar Dheis Dè go raibh a hAnam. Sincerely,
— James Plunkett
Well played, sir. An honest and decent employer, an inspirational philantropher, a fun bon viveur, a kind, imaginative and courageous man. Ireland is impoverished by your loss.
— Liz Ryan
Tony Jnr, Gavin and family
Deepest sympathies on the death of your father.

You all did your dad so proud last week and were blessed to have lived in the shadow of his greatness. Your dad was also such a big inspiration to so many others. Sadly we will never see his likeness again.
— Stephen Carroll
A giant of an Irishman and Irishness.

Our paths crossed many times in Africa, the Middle East and the USA. Tony was eternally generous with his time, guidance and company.

A unique man, in a unique time for Ireland.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
— M F Kent
As we remember Tony with great fondness we send sincere sympathy to the O'Reilly and Goulandris families. Tony was a great man and there are many in Ireland who have reason to be very grateful to him. May he rest in peace.
Brid O'Sullivan (widow of Tadhg ex Ireland Fund of France)
Eoin O'Sullivan
John and Caitriona
— O'Sullivan and Oxx families
Sincere Condolences met once at Claridge's his chauffeur nearby, Mr O'REILLY told me he looked forward to London Olympics and loved the Rugby International at Croke Park immensely.
— Peadar Surrey
Deepest sympathy to the O’Reilly family on the passing of Tony, he was always a friendly face and had the knack of bringing the fine weather on his many trips to Glandore. Billy and Eileen spent many happy years in his employment in Shorecliffe, may he rest in peace.
— Breege & Patrick Hurley, Glandore
Sincere condolences to all of the
O ‘Reilly family on the passing of Tony . A great Irish man , a fantastic rugby player and above all a wonderful gentleman .
May Tony’s Soul Rest In Peace .
— Robert Doyle
Rest in peace Sir Anthony. You'll never be forgotten. What a wonderful person & a true Irish man & legend on the field.
— Kildare Mum
On behalf of the Hellenic Community of Ireland I express my deepest sympathy to all the family and friends of dearest Tony. The world is definitely poorer by the passing of this generous, genuine and loving person with a great vision for Ireland. All of us in Ireland, Irish and Greeks in particular, ought him a big thank you. RIP
— Stella Xenopoulou
Deepest sympathy on the death of your dear father.The Ross family were always grateful to your Dad when he visited my dying uncle Michael Ross in South Africa in 1959.My uncle was a great Blackrock man who would have been involved with their Rugby teams.! Your Dad was a great man and loved by many.
— Brigid Ross Connaughton
We see our condolences to Tony’s family on his death. He lived the most remarkable life and will be remembered for many things but we are especially grateful for the work of the Ireland Funds which he founded with the great Dan Rooney. Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam
— Martin and Mary McAleese
In manus tuas, Domine, commendo spiritum meum
Wonderful man
— Anonymous
O Lord, support us all day long,
until the shadows lengthen,
and the evening comes,
and the busy world is hushed,
and the fever of life is over,
and our work is done.
Then in your mercy,
grant us a safe lodging and a holy rest,
and peace at last. Amen

Thank you for your service to Ireland,
to industry and sport.
Rest in peace.
— Anonymous
Anthony John Francis your star is shining brightly over the Emerald Isles. Rest in peace Tony. A Gentleman of the highest order.
— Anonymous
Condolences to the entire OREILLY family on the passing of a very genuine man, who appreciated worker's who done work for him.may Tony rest in peace.a absolute gentleman.
— Kevin carolan bailieborough co cavan.
Sincere Condolences to the entire O'reilly family on the passing of your dad and grandad. A beautiful send off for a beautiful soul.
Grandad whelan is back behind the wheel waiting at the gates of Heaven. May he rest in Peace💗
— Andrea Whelan
Sincere condolences on the passing of such a wonderful man.
I fondly remember many concerts in Castlemartin and support and encouragement over the years.
A great loss to all.
— Laura Butler
Our deepest sympathy to the O’ Reilly family on the passing of their beloved father Anthony J.F. (Tony) at this time.
They can be justly proud of his many achievements during an illustrious sporting and business career at home and abroad,that marks him out as one of the very best of his generation and a proud Irishman always.
At dheis De go raibh se.
— Brian and Mary Cowen,Ballard,Tullamore
So very sorry Caroline to hear of your dear Dad's passing. Thinking of you at this sad time. May he rest in peace 🙏
— Imelda Bradley
I had the good fortune of working for Tony O'Reilly& the O'Reilly Family from May 1968 in Columbia Delgany Co Wicklow & then in Castlemartin from February 1972 to December 2014.
46 years in total working for this iconic figure& unique O'Reilly family.
I had the general responsibility of looking after all of his "Irish Properties"
Columbia Delgany,Castlemartin House & the estate of over 900 acres ,his holiday home of Shorecliffe house in Glandore ,Co,Cork & the residence of no 2 Fitzwilliam Square in Dublin.
He was an exceptional employer & was always very grateful and loyal to all of the people that worked for him in his Irish homes.
He was always very gracious to us all with the many letters and notes of appreciation & thanks which we now hold dearly to his memory.
I soldiered with him through the 46 years of my employment with him & we both witnessed & experienced the " Highs & Lows" & the intricities in life.
We had a tremendous friendship,he was the most loyal person & mentor that one could ever meet.
He was a unique man & there will never be another person like him.
He will remain in our hearts & memories forever.
Rest in peace Dr O'Reilly as you so richly deserve.
— Jim Kelly.Curragh,Co Kildare.
Eternal rest grant onto him O Lord
may he rest in peace Amen
— Jean Hopkins
Sincere condolences to the O Reilly family on the passing of your Dad, may he rest in peace.
— The Craddock Family
So sorry to hear of Sir Anthony’s passing.
He gave so much to Ireland.
— Peter Fitzpatrick
Our sincere condolences to Caroline & the O'Reilly family on the sad passing of your dad. May he rest in peace.
— Brian & Brid Dempsey
Sincere sympathies to the O Reilly family. Thank you for a wonderful contribution to Ireland.
— Mary Hanafin
You were a wonderful human ❤️ being.
Rest in the peace of Christ.
— Marion
Looked at the tv programme tonight about Tony 0' Reilly. What a wonderful person he was . His life was like a fairy tale.
Rest in peace Sir Tony ur work is done.
— Marie D
I was lucky enough to play rugby on the lawn in Castlemartin one Stephens's day aged 10, your Dad distracted the opposition, gave me the ball, told me to shove it under my jersey and run for the line. I loved the mischief ! Some years later, he very kindly found the time to speak at my school, departing wisdom to young men and giving the Holy Ghost priests the opportunity to appreciate a Jesuit hero ! His unspoken generosity touched the lives of many people, just like I and 200 others witnessed that day. Moreover his demonstration of what is possible and the encouragement and guidance he gave is immeasurable. And what really stands out for me was how your Dad did it all in such style, the stories, accents, laughter, song and on occasion, duets on the piano with my father Dennis. So much of this is lost in today's world and if there is one memory for me above all, it will be how he reached deep into his education, intellect, culture and sense of fun to bring his friends colleagues and acquaintances on a long, adventurous and very very meaningful journey. Even from a distance, it was amazing to see. My deepest sympathies, hopefully he and pals are rehearsing The Mikado somewhere special !! I wish you all the very best and may you have a great celebration when the families and grandchildren reunite.
— Gar Whelan
Deepest sympathies to the O'Reilly family; they and Ireland have lost a great leader, marketeer and peace-promoting patriot, who also helped so many individuals through both programmes and more impulsive gifts - and all this with style and humour, exemplified by his favourite poem, Kipling's "If". May perpetual light shine upon him, and may the world be kind to his children (and the 23 grandchildren), and his memory stay golden.
— Joe Doyle
Deepest condolences to the family of this great man !!!!
Wonderful programme on tv tonight Tony O Reilly - the real deal!
Legends are never forgotten they continue on in their children and those who were privileged to know them. Those who bring destruction will fade away and be forgotten. Rest In Peace.
— Louth family
Deepest sympathy to the O Reilly family on the passing of AJF. A fantastic individual. May he rest in peace. JV
— John V O Callaghan
My sincere condolence to the entire O'Reilly family on the very sad passing of the legend that was Sir Anthony. His achievements in everything he turned his hand to are imeasurable, he was a giant of an Irish Man, he is somebody who will never be fòrgotten.
May God bless you, and may your gentle soul RIP.
You have earned your place in heavens eternal peace for all the good you have done during your successful time on this earth.
You have gained your wings, now fly high, and free.
— Marie Murphy, Dublin
Dear Susan, Cameron, Justine, Caroline, Gavin and Tony
Please accept my deep and sincere sympathy on the very sad passing of your Dad. Tony’s name was always spoken in our household with reverence and admiration. His achievements always applauded with great pride.
I pray that you will all find comfort in the cherished memories and the enduring impact of his exceptional life. May he now rest in eternal peace.
— Mary O'Connor
SO SORRY TO LEARN OF THE PASSING OF A CLASS SPORTSMAN BUSINESSMANAND A TRÙE IRISH MAN IN TONY .ON ONE OCCASIAN I PLAYED AGAINST HIM AT SCHOOL LEVEL.HE WAS PLAYING FOR BELVEDERE AND I WAS PLAYING FOR MOUNT TEMPLE IN THE QUARTER FINAL.I MUST ALSO SAY THAT I WAS DEEPED SADDENED THE WAY HE WAS TREATED IN THIS COUNTRY WHEN IN FACT.HE DID SO MUCH FOR THE COUNTRY.I EXTEND MY VERY DEEPEST SYMPATHYTO HIS ENTIRE FAMILY .MAY TONY NOW REST IN ETERNAL PEACE IN HEAVEN IN THE PRESENCE OF HIS REDEEMERJESUS CHRIST AND HIS CREATOR ALMIGHTY GOD.
— HENRY YOUNG TEMPLEMORE
I wish to extend my Condolences to the O’Reilly Family.
Tony was truly a Giant of Irish business, a true Gentleman and Superb sportsman.
Tony used to visit his good friend Paddy McElligott - the Castleisland businessman. I worked there in the 1960’s and often saw Tony. Legend has it that the Brand name KERRYGOLD was invented during one of Tony’s conversations with Paddy.
Roll forward to 1990’s and we had re-opened the old IRISH KILLALOE slate quarry at Portroe. Tony chose our slates when he was restoring the roof at Castlemartin.
May TONY and Paddy Mac Rest in Peace
— Jim O’Donoghue, Terenure, DUBLIN
Sincere condolences to Tony and family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilish.
— Eibhlín and Gerry
A good man who promoted Ireland internationally in the dark days of the sixties & seventies.
At a young age, Chief Executive of the biggest food manufacturing company in the world set the tone for Irish abroad .
Sincere sympathy to O'Reilly family .
May Tony rest in peace .
— Conor & Mary O'Brien Killee,Mitchelstown .
A Giant a Legend an incredible Irishman . Rest well in your much loved native soil after an extraordinary life lived to the brim.
— Nuala C
A wonderful Irish man and a great rugby player. Condolences to all his extended family.

David
Myross
Co.Cork
— David C Verdon
I've known Tony for over 50 years. He was always a true and trusted friend. He will be missed by those who knew him.
— Neil Collins
Sincere sympathy to the extended O Reilly family. What a man, What a man, What a man ! May he rest in peace.
— Mallo
My condolences to all the family. I have many memories of working at Heinz, particularly when the Company sponsored the Rugby World Cup. An experience I will never forget
— Ann Banks
‘There is a tide in the affairs of men when taken at the flood leads on to fortune ‘ Tony you took that tide. Thank you for your life and for the legacy of your outstanding family our own Irish Royalty - you touched so many hearts may you rest in external peace - Mary
— Mary O’Reilly
Condolences Gavin on the passing of your dad RIP. An inspirational and generous man. A very fair employer with tremendous foresight.
— Joe and Martina O'Keeffe, ex INM
Sincere condolences to the O Reilly Family on the passing of Tony he was a fantastic business man and a great ambassador for Ireland on the world stage may he rest in peace
— Kevin Phelan Omagh
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