Limerick community reeling following sudden death of publican
The popular publican Derry O’Meara of Derry’s Bar in Bruff, passed away suddenly at the weekend
THE PEOPLE of Bruff are coming to terms with the sudden loss of popular community man and publican Derry O’Meara.
It is understood Mr O'Meara passed away suddenly in Ballybunion on Saturday night (September 26) after enjoying a day at Listowel Races.
Mr O’Meara, from Knockainey, ran Derry’s Bar on the Main Street in Bruff.
Those involved in the Thomas Fitzgerald Centre paid tribute saying: “Our deepest sympathies to the family of Derry O’Meara, our much-loved local publican. A big loss to our area. May he Rest in Peace.”
Minister of State Niall Collins said: "Derry O'Meara was a very popular businessman in the town. He was highly respected and gave a lifetime of service to local organisations.
“He will be hugely missed by his family, many friends and local community."
Councillor PJ Carey based in neighbouring Kilmallock said: "Derry O'Meara was a much-loved community man, great supporter of local sporting clubs, fine businessman, was very much involved in all things Bruff through the festival committee including the recent barbecue competition in Bruff."
One mourner said: “Derry was just a gentleman, massive loss to the community.”
Another added: “Derry was an absolute gem and will be missed by so many.”
He has also been described as a “great community man” who was involved with Bruff GAA, as well as local fundraisers and events, including the Morning Star Rose Festival, which was revived in 2025 after a ten-year hiatus.
One person described Mr O’Meara as “such a lovely man - a pure character.”
Mr O'Meara is pre-deceased by his beloved wife Kate and survived by his son Richard, daughter Claire, son-in-law, grandson, and two sisters and four brothers.
He will repose in St Peter and Paul's Church, Bruff on Wednesday, September 30 from 5-7pm.
Funeral Mass will be in St Mary's Church, Knockainey at 12 noon on Thursday, October 1 with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
The O'Meara family thanked the staff of University Hospital Kerry in Tralee, ambulance crew, gardaí and first responders “for everything they did that night.”
May he Rest in Peace.