Touching tributes paid to 'one of a kind' Limerick butcher

THE TAGLINE of Jack Spratts Butchers is: “We don’t keep the best, we sell the best” and the late Jack was one of the best.

A warm welcome was as guaranteed in the Roxboro Road butcher shop as the guaranteed Irish produce in the counter display.

William (Jack) Spratt, of Maryfield House, New Road Thomondgate, Limerick city, and formerly of 15 Castle Barracks, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 9 at University Hospital Limerick, surrounded by his loving family.

The beloved son of Mary and the late John, Jack was the dearly loved brother of Timothy, John, Simon, Michael, Thomas, Catherine and Mary.

Mr Spratt is sadly missed by his sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, his adored nephews and nieces, uncles, aunts, extended family and a wide circle of friends.

Reposing at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Thomas Street on Sunday, September 13 from 4.30pm to 6pm. Funeral arriving at St Mary’s Church, Athlunkard Street on Monday, September 14, for requiem Mass at 11am followed by cremation service in Shannon Crematorium at 1pm.

Mr Spratt’s requiem Mass will be live-streamed here

The Spratt family kindly asked for donations, if desired, to the Pulmonary Care Unit, University Hospital Limerick.

Tributes have poured in to Mr Spratt online and on rip.ie

Cllr Sarah Kiely expressed her condolences to his family and “his wonderful colleagues in the butcher shop”.

“A lovely gentleman, a valued member of our community who has been so good to so many clubs, charities and community groups,” said Cllr Kiely.

This was echoed by Ciara Kane, CEO Northside Family Resource Centre, who in expressing her deepest sympathies said: “Jack was the biggest Thomond RFC and Moyross Utd supporter we ever met.”

Numerous customers have also described their sadness at Mr Spratt’s death.

“Rest in peace William, you truly were one of a kind and the kindest gentleman. I will miss your messages and funny videos. You deserved to live a long life, the world is a little darker now that your bright spirit is gone.”

One said their heart fell when they heard of Mr Spratt’s passing.

“He was such a lovely man and so proud of his roots. He always had a smile, no matter what. Limerick has lost a fabulous person and true gentlemen and my deepest sympathy to his family and friends.”

Another mourner wrote that they were very saddened at Mr Spratt’s passing.

“We were only speaking to him last week and he was so optimistic - his usual cheerful self. Sympathy to Mrs Spratt and all Jack's family and colleagues - Kieran and Eamonn. He always had a great story to tell. He will be greatly missed.”

May he rest in peace.