Funeral of former TD to take place

Mr Leonard's Funeral procession will leave his residence, in Smithborough on foot at approx 2.15pm.

The funeral of former Fianna Fáil TD, Senator and Councillor, the late Jimmy Leonard, will take place later today.

Mr Leonard, from Stranagarvagh, Smithborough, served as a member of Oireachtas Eireann between 1973 until his retirement in 1997.

Mr Leonard passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving wife Tess and family, Wednesday, April 13.

Mr Leonard's Funeral procession will leave his residence, on foot at approx 2.15pm on Sunday, April 17, to arrive at St Mary's Chapel, Magherarney, Smithborough for Funeral Mass at 3pm.

Burial will take place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

The funeral mass can be viewed on www.churchservices.tv/smithborough.

Taoiseach and Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil Micheál Martin led the tributes following news of the death of Mr Leonard.

“Jimmy was a true community champion who has left a significant mark in both national and local politics. In his early career, he worked with Monaghan Co-op, and saw at first-hand how the co-operative movement was instrumental in improving people's lives and communities. Jimmy understood the importance of community development and even prior to his entry into politics he had made a significant impact on his county and its development,” said An Taoiseach. “He understood farming and the challenges faced by farming families and always sought to improve their conditions. His early career influenced his later success as a national and local politician. As a public representative, Jimmy continued and deepened his commitment to community and national development. He faithfully represented his constituents and always advocated for them.”

Predeceased by his sister Alice Aughey and brothers Paddy and Tom, Mr Leonard is survived by wife Tess and children Raymond (Patricia), Joe (Ann), Colette (Des Henry, Kildare), Ann (Ted Ryan, Kildare), Ciarán (Joanne). Mr Leonard will be sadly missed and remembered with love by his daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, Ellen, Ciara, James, Sarah, Thomas, Conor, Clodagh, Donal, Ellie, John, Leonard, Kitty, Maisie, Thady, Aoibhínn, Meábh and Iarlaith, sisters Eileen (O'Boyle, New Jersey, USA) and Mary (Leonard, Dublin), sisters-in-law Una, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours, friends and by “all who knew and loved Jimmy”.