Lamented death of well-known community figure PJ Oates

There was widepread sadness in the Creevy/Roscommon town area over the weekend at news of the death after a long illness of well-known local man PJ Oates. Aged in his mid 80’s, PJ Oates was popular in farming, sporting and community circles in the Roscommon Town area for many decades.   A native of Gardenstown, PJ Oates was an employee of Roscommon County Council for many years. He was also a part-time farmer and he was heavily involved with the Roscommon Gaels GAA club since it was formed in 1959. Several Officerships   PJ Oates served several officerships in Roscommon Gaels including chairman and he was a team official with Gaels hurling and football teams over many years. He was also well-known as a local union representative for many years.    The late Mr. Oates was predeceased by his wife Ann and is mourned by daughter Maranna and sons Seamus, Aengus, Enda and Padraig, brother Eamonn and sister Kathleen, grandchildren, further relatives and friends.   A Guard of Honour was provided by members of Roscommon Gaels GAA club at the removal and funeral Mass which were held on Tuesday evening and Wednesday and the huge crowds that attended the funeral services was a mark of the esteem in which PJ Oates was held in the community.