The community of Castelfinn and the GAA family across Donegal are in mourning following the passing of Seamus Tinney.
Described by locals as one of its greatest, most courteous and kind humans, Seamus sadly passed away yesterday, 12th April 2023 at 5pm in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Stranorlar.
Educated in the Boys school in the Hillhead, his first job was as a shop boy in Devlin’s in Castlefinn, followed by five years of further education in Maynooth that was cut short by illness.
Once he recovered, Seamus moved to the Highlands of Scotland. Working by day and studying by night he was educated as an engineer and later went to work on many projects including the railway network before he took up a position as a bus driver in Dartford, southeast of London.
While living there Seamus became a founding member of the Dartford Irish Club. On the buses, Seamus learned to greet his passengers in 19 different languages, surely adding to their day in the most courteous manner as we have all experienced.
Seamus also worked at Gatwick Airport doing almost everything bar flying airplanes and before departing the UK Seamus worked on the construction of many motorways in England.
In the late 1970’s, Seamus returned to his hometown of Castlefinn and took up his position in Clonleigh Co-op giving fantastic service to our own community for over two decades.
Upon his return from London, Seamus was ever present and involved with Robert Emmets.
Throughout the late 1970’s – 1990’s he regularly attended committee meetings, sharing his vast worldly knowledge.
There was a time when two coach loads left the Diamond on a Sunday; one coach for the players and one for the supporters, with “The Great” Seamus Tinney taking his place proudly on the supporters’ bus.
He recently described these times as being ‘the good old days’ and the highlight of the week for him, something he missed dearly in the winter months.
In retirement Seamus continued his community involvement through the Art Class, Men’s Shed, the Choir Group and the History Club to name a few.
A spokesperson for Robert Emmets said “The huge smile, the big ‘hello,’ and the positive regard for everyone young or old, everyone got a wave; Seamus Tinney, you will be sadly missed.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to the Tinney family.”
He is survived by his three brothers Laurence, Anthony and Terry, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, neighbours and many friends.
Seamus’ remains will repose at his home in Grahamsland, Castlefin on Thursday (April 13th) from 6 p.m.
Funeral leaving his home on Saturday (April 15th) at 11.30 a.m. for Requiem Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Castlefin at 12 o’clock.
Interment afterwards in the adjacent St. Mary’s Cemetery, Castlefinn.
The Requiem Mass can be viewed live on the Parish Facebook Page at
https://www.facebook.com/urneycastlefinnparish
