Richard Tierney RIP
In this modern era, the survival of the small community becomes more difficult as time floats by. Thankfully, so much success is still achieved. This, indeed, is a tribute to the diligence and dedication of the caring, energetic local and contributing volunteer. And here, nobody ranks higher than the late Ritchie Tierney.
On Saturday March 22th the village of Inistioge was stunned at the tragic news that Ritchie had tragically departed this life. So suddenly. Such a beautiful way to be called home, while out enjoying his favourite sport; golfing in Mount Juliet. But alas, alas, much too soon.
Ritchie was born in The Hatchery, Inistioge in 1953, the eldest son of Alice and Mick Tierney. Childhood was happy with two brothers, Michael and Pat and one sister, Catherine. Carpentry was his chosen future career. Energetic ambition ordained the formation of an excellent building firm, Tierney & O’Neill. Here Ritchie was aided and abetted by brother Michael, cousin Dick and good friend Tom O’Neill. And from strength to strength it grew, such a wonderful addition to a community rich in skilled labour. So many earning a decent crust.
The GAA was Ritchie’s early love. Not exactly a classical wielder of the camán but at all times a formidable opponent. His dedication to the coaching of under-age players was second to none. And with much success, culminating in winning the 1980 Minor title for the first time. Being a senior club selector was a major corner of this man’s world. And alas, after reaching the senior county finals in ’76 and ’77, disaster. Defeat on both occasions.
Off the field, Ritchie was more than active; club chairman for 6 years, club treasurer for 30 years; member of the club executive for 50 years. Unbelievable. The promotion of the Rower Inistioge GAA club was always high on the local agenda. Playing areas were limited. But, cometh the hour, cometh the man. Ritchie, surrounded by an unstoppable group, set about the challenge. So many avenues of finance emerged; golf classics, race nights, table quizzes, raffles, sponsorship; to name but a few. The result was unique. Tom McDonald’s field purchased in 1987, also Tom’s Dance-hall. And the construction of club dressing rooms, meeting areas, community hall, etc. Planning, design and construction was naturally by Tierney & O’Neill. The Rower end of the parish also boomed. Hennessy’s field, now Canon Tom Murphy’s Park was purchased. Usual structures sprang up. Playing areas developed, and, yes, astro-turf. Again, all during the reign of the club chairman, Ritchie.
It was only in the late 1990’s that Ritchie emerged as a keen golfer, enjoying his membership in Mountain View. Then in 2010 he joined Mount Juliet, a popular and respected member.
The inclusion of Golf into the world of Ritchie certainly heralded a new era into the life of the locals, the Golf Society and the Golf Classic. The Golf Classic was a rewarding fund-raiser. Naturally so, when a body considers the annual visit and participation of our popular MC, the late, great Micheál O’Muircheartaigh.
The Golfing Society was really spoilt for choice with so many excellent destinations, at home and abroad. And why not; with a knowledgeable and fastidious organiser like Ritchie. No problem existing, nor transport, accommodation, venue or social event.
In 1979, Ritchie’s world was enhanced and enriched. His marriage to Josette, a Clare teacher. Such an excellent union, resulting in a fine family of four, Richard, Michelle, Geraldine and Pat. A family worth knowing and all successful.
What can a person say to Josette? Ritchie’s passing creates such a void. Unfillable. But such a wealth of happy memories exist. A poor substitute at present but time is good. And friends abound, with Ritchie not far away.
The funeral told its own tale; a decent man was going home. For days the wee village of Inistioge was simply thronged, thousands from many walks of life rambled in to pay their respects. The Requiem mass was crammed, tearful, lonely, solemn and musical. Ritchie was no stranger to God’s house. The GAA guard of honour was long, calm and sad. The club marched in silence, each member rich in recollection and appreciation of a comrade who had given so much and asked for so little.
Finally, in Cappagh cemetery Ritchie, a cornerstone of the Rower Inistioge parish, rambled home.
A Friend