The news of his sudden demise cast a great gloom over Newport district, where he was so long honoured and loved. The deceased, who had reached the ripe old age of 86, had been ill for only a few days and passed peacefully away, fortified by the rites of the Holy Church, in the presence of his wife and family. The late Mr. Kelly was a native of Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare, and was of a teaching family. He came to Newport over sixty years ago and his first appointment in the district was at Rossduane N.S., Kilmeena. From there he went to Cuilmore N.S. and finally in 1899, was appointed to the Newport Boys’ School, from which he retired in 1933.

He was a weekly communicant and a lifelong member of the Sacred Heart Sodality and of the Pioneer Association. He was an outstanding teacher and many of his pupils, amongst whom was Most Rev. Dr. Walshe, Archbishop of Tuam, have attained positions of prominence in clerical and lay positions. On his retirement he became interested in local affairs and was elected a Fine Gael member of Mayo County Council, where he gave long and faithful service to the people of Newport district. A man of lovable personality, his willingness to help everyone, irrespective of politics made him popular with all sections of the community.

On Friday evening his remains were removed to Newport parish Church, where they were received by V. Rev. Fr. Killeen, P.P., Newport and Rev. T. Gibbons, Belcarra. The coffin was carried on the shoulders of past pupils, who marched in processional order and were followed by a large cortege. On Saturday morning Solemn Requiem High Mass was offered for the repose of his soul by Rev. Fr. Horan, C.C., assisted by V. Rev. Fr. Walshe, P.P., Kilmeena and Rev. Fr. H. Sammon. V. Rev. Killeen was M.C. In the choir were Rev. Fr. M. Berry C.C., Ballindine; Rev. Fr. F. McManamon, Maynooth Mission; and Rev. Fr. M. McLoughlin, A.M.

The funeral took place after last Mass on Sunday to Burrishoole cemetery and was one of the largest seen in the district for some time.

The chief mourners were Mrs. B.A. Kelly (widow), Thomas Kelly N.T. (son), Mrs A. O’Donnell, Limerick and Mrs M.A. Cormickan, Ballyhaunis (daughters).

Mayo News, July 24, 1954

In Loving Memory Martin D Kelly ex N.T. who died 16th July 1954 aged 86 years and his wife Bridget A. died 4th Nov 1971 aged 75 years

Kelly In Loving memory of Thomas J Kelly N.T. born 9th February 1907 died 16th December 1967 His wife Sheila died 27th Mar 1997 aged 81 years.