Fógraí bháis: Tom O'Hanlon

By John Hearne
Cathaoirleach, Comhairle Contae
Port Lairge, Sinn Féin

Republicans in Waterford and Kilkenny were shocked and saddened recently by the sudden death at the age of 51 of Tom O’Hanlon of Lady Lane, Waterford.
Tom was born into a family of nine in Stoneyford, Co Kilkenny, but lived in Waterford for 35 years, working all that time at Waterford Crystal. His family also had Tipperary connections. Despite being a Kilkenny man, he had a soft spot for the Waterford Hurlers, which caused many good-natured arguments with friends & family.
A single man, and something of a loner through choice, Tom was a man of simple pleasures, a few pints, a flutter on the horses, a bit of craic was all he needed. Material possessions meant nothing to him.
A republican and a socialist, Tom was always to be seen at Easter Commemorations in the City & County and attended the Annual Manchester Martyrs Commemorations in Hugginstown and other events. A great supporter of Sinn Féin, he was always there when there were leaflets to be delivered or other help was needed. When the Waterford Sinn Féin office needed decorating, Tom turned up, never having held a paintbrush before, and spent the whole weekend working like a Trojan. He was a great fundraiser for the party, and made generous personal contributions on several occasions, depending on how the horses had run for him.
Tom O’Hanlon was a big kind man with a soft, gentle manner, a winning, frequent grin, hands like shovels, and a heart of gold. His gentle slow way of talking belied a sharp mind, with an equally sharp sense of humour. He was a great friend and was loved and will be sorely missed by many.
His funeral in Stoneyford on 20 June was attended by many friends and colleagues from Waterford Crystal, who formed a guard of honour, as well as friends and comrades from Sinn Féin.
He is survived by eight brothers and sisters and many nieces and nephews. Ar dheis go raibh a anam.