The late Seamus Tully, Killybegs - 'A pioneer in the Irish fishing industry'

Tributes have been paid to the late Seamus Tully, a man described as “a pioneer in the Irish fishing industry.”

Seamus (James Anthony), of Ardglas, Fintra Road, Killybegs, passed away peacefully at his home in the loving care of his family on Saturday.

Predeceased by his parents, brothers and sisters and sadly missed by his beloved wife, Kathleen, and much loved by daughters Carmel, Marie, Rosaleen and Claire. Adored grandfather of Thomas, Niamh, James and Meabh.

“It was with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Seamus Tully on Saturday morning,” Pat the Cope Gallagher TD said. “I have known Seamus my entire adult life since I first went to process fish in Killybegs.

“Seamus was a pioneer within the Pelagic fishing sector. He - in his own modest way - pushed forward the sector at critical times within the Irish Fishing industry. He equally focused on the service sector with a long involvement with Swan Nets.

“Seamus always had the best interests of the entire fishing sector at heart, he believed if all sectors were performing well, then the industry would thrive and progress. Seamus, in his lifetime, oversaw the transformation of the fishing fleet from wooden decks to state-of-the-art modern-day fishing vessels.

“He devoted his entire life to fishing, even recently when I met with him, his focus was on the current challenges within the sector, the challenges post-Brexit and recent quota cuts.”

“I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to his wife Kathleen, his daughters Carmel, Marie, Rosaleen and Claire; his much-loved grandchildren.

“The poet Delmar Pepper best describes our prayers and hopes for Seamus as he leaves his home Port for his final journey: ‘Where every day is a day to fish, To fill your heart with every wish. Don’t worry, or feel sad for me, I’m fishin’ with the Master of the sea.’”

Seamus was also a keen golfer and was a well-respected member of Portnoo Golf Club.

The Killybegs Fishermen’s Organisation posted: “Sad news in Killybegs with the passing of Seamus Tully. One of the pioneers of the pelagic industry in Ireland and an active and valued KFO member for many years, Seamus will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”

Reposing at his home on Fintra Road F94Y3K4 today till 6pm and tomorrow, Monday, from 2pm to 6pm. Removal on Tuesday morning to St Mary of the Visitation Church, Killybegs for 12pm Funeral Mass. Mass will be streamed online. Private burial. Strictly family only. Donations in lieu of flowers if desired to The Irish Heart Foundation or the RNLI.