Killarney was shrouded in sadness this week as the community gathered to mourn the passing of Dermot O’Callaghan Jr.

A member of the renowned O’Callaghan family, Dermot was synonymous with the iconic Fáilte Hotel.
Beyond the hospitality industry, Dermot was a passionate supporter of local sports, particularly Dr Crokes GAA Club and Killarney Celtic Football Club. His enthusiasm for these teams were evident in his regular attendance at matches and his active involvement in club activities.
The O’Callaghan family has a long-standing legacy of public service, with Dermot’s father the late Dermot Sr and brother Niall ‘Botty’ O’Callaghan both serving as prominent figures in local politics.
The news of Dermot’s passing was met with shock and grief throughout the community.
Friends and family gathered to pay their respects at his funeral Mass, where heartfelt tributes were shared about his kind nature, infectious laughter, and love for life.

FAREWELL

At the funeral Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral on Tuesday morning Fr Mark Moriarty paid tribute to Dermot.
“Two words kept ringing through in all the kind messages: that of a kind man and a gentleman. Sometimes we see mission as this big understanding, when our primary mission is love. Dermot's primary mission was love,” Fr Moriarty told the congregation.
Dermot’s son, Colm, delivered a poignant eulogy, reflecting on his father's life and legacy. He spoke of Dermot’s unwavering love for his family, his infectious laughter, and his ability to light up any room.
Colm thanked those who had supported his father during his illness and expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community.
As symbols of Dermot's life, items including a Glasgow Celtic jersey, a U2 album, and pictures with his son, Colm, and late twin brother, Donal, were brought to the altar.

TRIBUTES

The Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce expressed their sorrow at the loss of Dermot O’Callaghan Jr.
They acknowledged the significant contribution of the O’Callaghan family to the town’s business and tourism sectors, highlighting the warm welcome extended to all visitors to the Fáilte Hotel.
“Dermot Jnr was always very friendly, pleasant and compassionate and it was no surprise that he built up a such wide circle of friends,” the Chamber stated. “The O’Callaghan family has contributed enormously to the business, political and sporting life of Killarney and everybody in Chamber shares their sense of loss.”

Dr Crokes GAA Club also paid tribute to their lifelong member. “Dermot was a lifelong supporter of the black and amber and took great pride in the many successes of the club,” club chairman Eoin Brosnan said.
“His family have always been great supporters and sponsors of the club. Even during Dermot’s illness he took a great interest in the club and he really enjoyed good banter with his friends from other clubs in the area whilst proudly standing up for the black and amber.”
The Kerry branch of the Irish Hotel Federation also paid tribute.
Chairman Brian Lawlor said: “We extend our heartfelt sympathies upon the recent passing of Dermot O’Callaghan Jr. Dermot was a true gentleman and beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. From an early age, his dedication and contributions to The Fáilte and the wider College Street community were evident, leaving a lasting impression on both locals and visitors who passed through its doors over the years.”

Killarney Celtic’s Paul Sherry added: “The Failte Hotel and the O’ Callaghan Family have be an intrinsic part and supporter of Killarney Celtic Football Club and its history for many years . Our history and destiny is interlinked and so the passing of any family member not least Dermot Jr is of great sadness to the club.”

Killarney Celtic along with Killarney Vintners and the staff of The Failte Hotel provided a guard of honour for the funeral of Dermot.
He will be dearly missed by his mother Eileen, his son Colm, his partner Carla, his brother's Michael, Colm, Paudie and Niall and his extended family and friends.