The death has taken place on August 20th 2024, of Jim Kiely, Westport, and formerly of Ballycotton and Millstreet Co. Cork.
Jim was a former managing director of Allergan, Westport, and was a member of the board of IDA for many years.
He contributed hugely to the growth and expansion of one of the west of Ireland’s most successful companies, first established over 40 years ago, and which now employs over 2,000 people across Ireland.
Jim was a former president of Westport Chamber of Commerce.
A tribute by the organisation said he gave generously of his time to serve the needs of the business community in Westport and the town as a whole.
In his youth Jim was an accomplished rugby player and enjoyed many happy seasons with Rockwell RFC back in the 1950s.
After graduating with a degree in commerce from University College Cork, he moved to London where he worked with Ford Motors and qualified as an accountant in 1962 – as outlined in his video interview with Dr. Oliver White, Westport, some years ago.
Councillor Brendan Mulroy said his input into the development of Allergan was central to the growth and commercial success of Westport.
“He has left an outstanding legacy and his passing will be greatly mourned locally and nationally. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family.”
Other tributes paid to him referred to the fact he was ‘a real gentleman’.
Predeceased by his wife Satch and daughter Karen, he is sadly missed by his son Jerome, daughters Ruth and Hilary, grandchildren James, Jack, Meg, Finn, Suzey and Malachy, sons-in-law Tom and Myles and his sister-in-law Eileen and partner Noreen.
Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their great loss.
His remains will be reposing in Navin’s Funeral Home, Westport, on Wednesday from 5 p.m. with removal at 7pm to St. Mary’s Church, Westport.
Funeral Mass takes place at 11 a.m. on Thursday followed by burial in Murrisk Cemetery
[RIP.ie]
