Tommie Kelly is dead. The stark reality of the news, though not unexpected, plunged the parish of Newport into mourning on Saturday, when it was announced that Mr. Tommie Kelly, N.T. had passed to his eternal reward at the Co. Hospital, Castlebar.

Just only seven weeks ago Tommie, as he was best known, was at his post of Principal of Newport 'Boys' National School, which position he held since he replaced his late father 34 years ago. At the end of class he told his some time in hospital. But that was the last day for him to close the school books. Despite the best medical treatment that could be obtained The Master was called by The Great Master on Saturday last, bringing, for many in Newport, the end of an era.

When Tommie Kelly commenced his teaching career in Newport in 1932 he organised Newport G.A.A. Club, and became one of its prominent players, wearing with distinction the lily white jersey, the hallmark of the team. In 1933 he won an All Ireland football medal with Mayo Juniors. In the 1930's he was secretary of Mayo G.A.A. Board for a number of years and always took a deep interest in G.A.A. affairs at cub and county level.

The attendance at the removal of his remains to St. Patrick's Church, Newport, on Sunday evening was one of the largest ever seen in the district and included many of his ex-pupils, now members of all the various professions. The coffin, draped in the Newport G.A.A. colours, was carried the last mile by G.A.A. supporters in the area and pupils from Newport Boy's School formed a Guard of Honour.

On Monday Requiem High Mass was offered for the repose of his soul by Very Rev. Canon Killeen, P.P., assisted by Very Rev. Canon Walsh P.P., Kilmeena; Rev. Fr. E. McEllin, CC, and Rev. Fr. Clarke, CC. In the choir were V. Rev. Fr. M. F. Hennelly, P.P.. Parke; Rev. L. Berry, CC, Milltown; Rev. Fr. P. Moran, C.C., Robeen; Rev M. Tobin . CC, Westport; Rev. M. Comer, CC, Newport and Rev. A. Devine, CC, Letterfrack.

After Mass the funeral took place to Burrishoole cemetery. Very Rev. Canon Killeen, P.P., officiated at the graveside. He is survived by his wife Mrs. Sheila Kelly, N.T.; sons, Martin and Tomas; daughters, Maura, N.T., Valerie, N.T. and Eileen.

He was brother of Mrs. Mary A. Cormican, Limerick.

Mayo News, December 23, 1967

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.