Sense of sadness in Erris following passing of beloved long-standing businessman

There is a sense of sadness across Erris this afternoon following the passing of well-known and long-standing businessman AJ Reilly.

Mr Reilly had been a businessman in Belmullet for over five decades and was known throughout the length and breadth of the country. 

In 1972, he set up his painting and decorating business AJ Reilly Ltd on Main St, and it became an institution, serving the people of Erris and throughout. He opened a second premises on Barrack St, a homeware store, which was also an outstanding success.

A hard worker and a straight talker, AJ was part of the great Belmullet GAA team of the 1960s and 70s along with his late brother Noel.

AJ Reilly Ltd took to social media to announce the sad news this afternoon.

"We are heartbroken to share the news of AJ's passing this morning. He was a beloved husband, father, friend and upstanding member of the business community and will be deeply missed. We will announce funeral arrangements soon. In the meantime, please keep his family and loved ones in your thoughts."

Erris-based Fianna Fáil councillor Sean Carey said AJ was huge loss to Erris.

"He was well-known throughout the area. I think every household in the county knew about AJ from dealing with him there in the shop. He was held with great affection by the people of Erris," Cllr Carey told the Western People. "He was also heavily involved with the GAA and with the Belmullet team in 1960s and 70s.

"I only met him on New Year's Eve at function and he was in great form. He always had his finger on the pulse and was very progressive."

Fine Gael councillor Gerry Coyle said he was an iconic figure in Belmullet.

"He ran his business so well. He respected his employees and everyone who worked with him, and was so well respected in the town and the community," Cllr Coyle said. "He was a very good businessman. He stuck it through whether there was a crash or a boom, he was always there and his doors were always open, and he always gave back to his community."

There has been an outpouring on social media following the news of his passing.

The All Things Erris Facebook said the whole of Erris is in mourning today.

"AJ was known the length and breadth of the country, starting out in the painting and decorating business and then going to expand and open his own furniture and hardware shops, providing lots of employment over the years. AJ was also a keen sportsman, playing football for Belmullet alongside his brother, Noel! Sincere sympathy goes to his wife, Kathleen, his sons, sister Maura, relatives and many friends. May his gentle soul rest in peace."

The Tullaghan Bay Rowing Club also paid tribute to Mr Reilly.

"Condolences to all the Reilly family so sorry to hear of the passing of AJ may he rest in peace."

Funeral details will be announced later.