PEOPLE THROUGHOUT New Ross are in mourning this week following the passing, on Friday evening, of Michael Sidney, Arch House, Neville Street.
One of the most respected businessmen in the town Mr. Sidney ran a car dealership in Marshmeadows for many years and the name of ‘Sidney’s Garage’ is still synonymous with the town.
In addition to being highly regarded in business circles Mr. Sidney was also one of the most respected members of the community in the town and that fact was reflected in the large congregation of mourners who gathered in the Parish Church yesterday morning for his Requiem Mass at 11 a.m.
Mark Minihan and Mr. Sidney’s daughter, Therese, gave the eulogy in which they both paid tribute to him and highlighted his love for his family and his passion for business.
Mr. Minihan remarked that he was more well known than any politician and he highlighted how his friend had created his own success in business having started out working in the Central Garage.
Therese reflected on how devoted Mr. Sidney was to his family and highlighted that while he was well known for his passion for cars and his success in business he loved nothing more than being around his family at social events.
The congregation was also told of how Mr. Sidney ‘absolutely doted on his grandchilden’ and was immensely proud of all his family and of their respective achievements.
The offertory procession reflected aspects of Mr. Sidney’s life and his interests. A dog lead was brought up to reflect his love of animals and of his passion for walking – which was also touched on by Mr. Minihan.
A model car reflected his success in business and interest in vehicles while a Wexford jersey was indicative of his life-long support for the Model County’s GAA teams and a family tree was used to highlight his love of those nearest and dearest to him.
Following yesterday’s funeral mass Mr. Sidney’s remains were brought to St. Stephen’s Cemetery in the Irishtown for burial.
He is survived by his wife, Breda, son, Jim, daughters, Therese, Yvonne and Aine, grandchildren, Will, Conor, Caitlin, Dara, Michael, Hannah, Caoimhe and Harry, brother, John, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and large circle of friends.
Mr. Sidney was pre-deceased by his son, Billy.
