Tributes have been paid following the sad passing of Portlaoise native Billy Dargan.
Mr Dargan, from Harpurs Lane, passed peacefully at Portlaoise Regional Hospital on Sunday.
He is deeply regretted by his loving brother Tommy and sister in law Kate, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends, also all the staff at St Fintan’s Hospital.
Billy was a passionate Portlaoise and Laois GAA supporter – with his club leading the tributes to him online.
They said: “Portlaoise GAA Club was so saddened today to hear that one of our greatest supporters, Billy Dargan, has passed away.
“Billy was a gentle soul and is a true Town legend.
“His infectious smile, his pure excitement for all the games, his pride in sporting his favourite colours – the green and white of Portlaoise and blue and white of Laois, will always be remembered.
“Billy’s love of his club was fully reciprocated. He will be fondly remembered by so many Townies.”
While Portlaoise businessman Jack Nolan, who sold many flags and bunting to Billy over the years, also remembered him fondly.
He said: “So sorry to hear of the passing of Billy Dargan.
“A really gentle man has left us. A great Town and Laois supporter. His infectious smile, and hearty greeting and wave would brighten up your day.
“In his young days it was his love of dogs and then his beloved rabbits in Harpurs Lane but the big love was the GAA.
“I had the pleasure years ago travelling with him to many games with his colleagues on the ‘Fintans Bus’ with Eddie Dunne at the wheel.
“Great craic. Billy just loved the games with flag in hand. It was a pleasure to keep him topped up with club and county flags. God rest you Billy.”
Billy’s funeral details are as follows:
Removal from Keegans funeral home to arrive at St Fintans Church on the Stradbally Road for Requiem Mass at 2pm in St Fintan’s Church, Stradbally Roadd, on Wednesday afternoon.
Interment will follow in SS Peter and Paul’s Cemetery.
May he Rest in Peace.
SEE ALSO – Young Laois woman to feature on new RTE singing game show
