Republican Memorial Tributes 32

Memmorial Stone Mullaghbawn Garden of Remembrance

1988 An Cumann Cabrach Honouree - Connacht: THOMAS KEANEY ​It is fitting that 81-year-old Thomas Keaney be the Connaught person honoured by the Republican Movement at this testimonial function. It is a well earned tribute to one who has given a lifetime to the cause of Irish freedom. It is a recognition by a younger generation of republicans of the inspiration they have drawn, from his dedication, courage and sacrifice. ​Tommy, who now resides at Keshcarrigan, County Leitrim, belonged to a family with strong nationalist sympathies, and grew up in the cradle of republicanism in South Leitrim; – Aughacashel, Aughnasheelin, area. While still in his teens and with childhood memories of the Tan and Civil War, he joined the IRA and served under one of his closest friends the late Captain Jim Vaugh who died as a result of a beating by Free State forces in Ballinamore Barracks in 1931. Tommy has vivid memories of similar treatment, by the same forces, but fortunately for him without the same fatal result. ​In his lifelong commitment to the Republican Movement, Tommy supported every phase of the struggle. With his wife Tess, a member of Cumann na mBan, they provided an open house to the many republicans who called there. Indeed republican activists from all over the country can testify to their generosity and kindness. Tommy and Tess have a family of five. Their sons Tom, Joe who served two terms in Portlaoise Jail, and John, are active in republican circles, and are carrying on the family tradition. ​Today in the advent of his long career, Tommy says the present generation of republicans is the greatest he has known. He firmly believes their sacrifice and courage will bring about the long-sought goal of freedom. Republicans everywhere hope Tommy Keaney will be with us for years to come, and that he will live to see his life's dream come true, see the achievement of a life of dedicated endeavour, a united Ireland. Saoirse November 1988 Obituary: "REPUBLICANS were grieved to learn of the death of Tommy Keaney of Keshcarrigan, Co. Leitrim on October 27. He was in his early eighties. ​Tommy was one of the young men who enrolled in the Irish Republican Army in the mid-1920s following the 'Ceasefire and Dump Arms' order of May 1923. He served under Seán O'Farrell and also Jimmy Joe Reynolds, later killed with two comrades at Castlefin, Co. Donegal in 1938. ​Tommy Keaney gave service right throughout his life and was known and respected by succeeding generations of Republicans. He often recounted stirring events, such as the clashes at Newtowngore and Cootehill in 1931 and the victorious Sinn Féin election campaign in 1957. ​To hold conversation with him even briefly was in itself an inspiration. His support for the struggle in the Six Occupied Counties was unflagging right up to his last illness. ​At the removal from Carrick-on-Shannon Hospital to Drumcong Church the coffin was draped in the National Flag and a guard of honour under the command of Sylvester Fitzsimons, Drumsna, escorted the remains. ​Sympathy is extended to his wife Tess, his sons John and Tom Joe and his daughters, Marie, Ann and Margaret. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam." Anglo-Celt 3 November 1988: "Mr. Thomas Keaney — The death has occurred of Mr. Thomas Keaney of Keshcarrigan. He is survived by his wife, Tess; three daughters, Marie and Margaret in London, and Ann in New York and two sons, Tom Joe and John, several grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was a life long member of Sinn Fein and his cortege was led by two pipers, Paul McCarthy and Frank McCabe while an oration was read over his grave by Frank Guickian of Keshcarrigan and Sean McManus, National Chairman of Sinn Fein."