As 2016 moved towards its conclusion, the final curtain fell for one of Conna’s greatest characters Tom Cotter, who passed to his eternal reward on Thursday, December 29.
Tom, who lived in Modeligo and Currabeha prior to moving to Montys Meadow in the village, had enjoyed good health and was still driving daily up until 18 months ago when he was admitted to St Patrick’s Community Hospital having suffered a fall.
The life and soul of every party, Tom was always welcomed at whatever occasion, party or gathering he chose to attend. A star of the stage in his own right, Tom had been a stalwart of Conna Dramatic Society and took part in many musicals and revues down through the years. He was the recipient of various best actor awards at various drama festivals and had been likened on occasion, to the late great Cyril Cusack.
Indeed, at his funeral Mass on Sunday, Fr Billy O’Donovan spoke of his own association with the late Cyril Cusack when he ministered as a Curate in Chiswick in England, going on to tell the congregation that he shared his Rosary beads with Mr Cusack when he was dying – a story Tom loved to hear.
LEAD
Indeed, Tom took the lead role in many great plays with Conna Dramatic Society – some that come to mind would include his portrayal of the Hiker Lacey in ‘The Year of the Hiker’, Danger Mullally in ‘Many Young Men of Twenty’ and ‘Tomasheen Sean Rua in ‘Sive’ to name but a few.
Tom, who was pre-deceased by his wife Teresa (nee Walsh) in January 2010, would have celebrated his 92nd birthday on January 9.
As would be expected, there was a large and representative attendance at the Rosary, removal and funeral Mass. At the graveside in Rathcormac and on Tom’s request, his good friend Peter Barry sang a song that was written by Ann Hayes and Rena Ahearne for Tom’s 80th birthday, entitled ‘Tom Cotter You’re a Legend’; Pat Byrne obliged with ‘The Moon Behind The Hill’ and Oliver Twomey sang ‘Oh What A Beautiful Day’ – another of Tom’s favourites. Then, in a rousing finale and in in a fitting celebration of a life well lived, all present joined in the singing of ‘Many Young Men Of Twenty’. from the play of the same name.
Tom’s devoted niece Esther, expresses her grateful thanks to the matron and staff of Fermoy Community Hospital for the wonderful care, love and attention shown to Tom up until his death on Thursday.
Tom will be sadly missed by his niece Esther, grand-nephew Gerard, sister-in-law Olive, brother-in-law Michael, relatives, neighbours and many friends to whom we extend our sincere sympathy. May he rest in peace.
