Croom bid farewell to one of its most respected residents, Mr Spencer Lyons, whose funeral took place yesterday amidst a large gathering of mourners. The passing of Mr Lyons, a prominent figure in the community, has left a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Born in Cork City in 1870, Mr Spencer Lyons was the fourth son of Mr William Henry Lyons, a distinguished Justice of the Peace and former butter merchant in Cork City. His family lineage boasted a rich history, with his grandfather having served as the Mayor of Cork and receiving knighthood from Queen Victoria during her first visit to Ireland. Additionally, his late uncle, Dr Lyons, had represented Dublin City in Parliament during the early 1870s.

The funeral service, held at a local church in Croom, was solemnized by Reverend Father O’Donnell, the Parish Priest of Rathkeale, alongside Reverend Father Lee, the Parish Priest of Croom, and Reverend Father Dwane, representing the Union of Clergy. The clergy’s presence was a testament to the high regard in which Mr Lyons was held within the religious community.

The chief mourners included Mr William Henry Lyons Jr., the father of the deceased, and Major William Henry Lyons of the 2nd Life Guards, his brother. Other notable mourners present were Mr P. E. O’Donnell, a solicitor from Limerick and brother-in-law to Mr Lyons, as well as Mr Fred Strath from the Hibernian Bank in Kilkeony, among others.

The funeral procession was adorned with wreaths sent by various individuals and organizations, expressing their condolences and paying tribute to Mr Lyons. The wreaths included heartfelt messages such as “From Father and Mother, with deepest sympathy” and “From Brothers and Sisters, with loving memory.” Others came from Mr and Mrs. O’Donnell, the Young Ireland Football Club in Limerick, the Limerick County Board of the Gaelic Athletic Association, the Commercial Club of Limerick, the Croom GAA Club, the Croom Cycling Club, the Croom Race Committee, as well as Mr and Mrs. Strath, Mr and Mrs. Nugent, Mr and Mrs. Manning, Mr O’Connell, and many more.

The outpouring of condolences and the presence of a diverse range of mourners from different spheres of Mr Lyons’ life were a true reflection of the impact he had made during his time in Croom. His warm demeanor, community involvement, and notable family background had garnered him widespread respect and admiration.

As the mourners paid their final respects, the legacy of Mr Spencer Lyons remained embedded in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing him. Croom, along with its surrounding communities, mourned the loss of a distinguished citizen whose contributions will be cherished for years to come.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 15 November 1904