Jim’s instinct was always to help others with kindness
By Mary Dennehy
THE community is this week remembering Jim Lawlor and paying tribute to a “true Tallaght man” who volunteered decades of his life to helping others.
Jim passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, in Peamount Hospital at the age of 78.
Jim Lawlor who passed away peacefully on Tuesday will be remembered in the hearts of the people of Tallaght for many years to come
While mourning the loss of a great friend and volunteer, the community is remembering Jim and celebrating the positive, lasting legacy he has left – and the kindness that he showed many as he tirelessly volunteered for Tallaght and its residents.
Jim approached all of his volunteering efforts and those he met with a smile, and a packet or two of biscuits.
Born and reared in Killininny Cottages on the Firhouse Road, Jim moved to Seskin View with his late wife Mary and had two children Alison and Martin – and six adored grandchildren Evan, Emma, Aoife, Erika, Harvey and Matilda.
Speaking with The Echo on Wednesday, Jim’s daughter Alison said: “My dad was an extremely kind and gentle man who did everything for his community and family.
“He was very much respected and loved by everybody…and was a true Tallaght man.
“He loved where he lived and saw all of the good in Tallaght.
“He was a wonderful historian of the Tallaght area as well.
“It was a privilege to call him our father.”
A founding member of Tallaght Community Council (TCC) more than 40 years ago, Jim enthusiastically supported the growth of Tallaght over the decades.
He also remained a driving force in TCC until recent months when he was hospitalised after suffering a stroke.
Tara De Buitlear, PRO of Tallaght Community Council, said: “Jim was a thorough gentleman, a proud family man, loving husband to Mary and dad to Alison and Martin and a doting grandad.
“He was also a very loyal friend and a committed community stalwart in Tallaght.
“He gave generously of his time on many committees – preserving Tallaght heritage, the Dodder and Tallaght University Hospital were issues close to his heart.
“Jim epitomised the saying, ‘If you want something done, ask a busy person’.
“His core instinct was always to help others, with deep kindness and humility.”
Tara added: “All of his fellow volunteers on Tallaght Community Council will deeply miss Jim’s friendship, commitment and can do attitude.
“His lifetime of voluntary contribution to Tallaght was recognised by TCC when he was installed as Honorary President of TCC.
“We extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Jim’s family and his many friends at this sad time.
“We will work hard to continue his tireless passion for Tallaght and to honour his legacy in the years ahead.
“To celebrate his role in TCC, we will now name the Special Needs & Carers Category, the Jim Lawlor Special Needs & Carers category in the Tallaght Person of the Year Awards.”
A private funeral will take place for Jim’s family due to Covid-19 restrictions.
However, Jim’s daughter Alison told The Echo that they hope to celebrate Jim’s life with the community in the near future.
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