The death has occurred of Des Browne senior, the man who established Browne’s Jewellers in Portlaoise and a man highy-regarded in business and sporting circles in Laois.
Mr Browne, aged 90, passed away peacefully at his home on the Mountrath Road in Portlaoise.
Having worked in West’s Jewellers on Grafton Street in Dublin and later at O’Connor’s at Harold’s Cross, he the set up Des Browne Jewellers on Main Street in Portlaoise in 1963. The business is now run by his son Gerry and is one of the most prominent jewellers in the region.
Beloved husband of Catherine, he is survived by his children Colm, Gerry, Ann-Marie, Margaret, Des, Helen, Dan and Eoin, grand-children and great grand-children.
He is pre-deceased by his first wife Mary and sister Gay. Deeply regretted by his brother Cyril, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and many friends.
Mr Browne was described by Gerry Browne Jewellers on Facebook as “a master at his craft, a keen golfer, a great husband, dad, granddad and great granddad” and “one of life’s true gentlemen”.
A member of The Heath Golf Club for many years, the Browne family are also strongly associated with Laois GAA. His son Colm captained Laois to National Football League glory in 1986 when he was joined on the team by Gerry.
Colm was also named as an All Star that year, becoming the first Laois footballer to be honoured.
Des is reposing at Keegan’s funeral home on Tuesday from 6.30pm, with rosary at 8pm. On Wednesday, removal is from his residence to arrive at SS Peter and Paul’s church for 12noon mass.
Interment afterwards in SS Peter and Paul’s Cemetery. Those attending are asked to observe Covid guidelines and observe social distancing.
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