Lord Massy, a prominent figure in Irish society, passed away yesterday at the age of eighty at his residence in Killakee, Rathfarnham, Co. Dublin. The Right Honorable John Thomas William Massy, 6th Baron Massy, had been battling failing health following an operation six months ago for an internal complaint. Though the operation was initially successful, he never fully regained his strength.
Born on August 30th, 1836, Lord Massy was the son of John Thomas Massy and his mother, the daughter of Mr Luke White of Woodlands, Co. Dublin. He inherited the title upon the death of his brother in 1874 and was subsequently elected as a representative peer for Ireland two years later. In 1863, he married Lady Lucy Maria Butler, daughter of the 3rd Earl of Carrick, with whom he had one son and two daughters. The heir to the title is now the Honorable Hugh Somerset John Massy.
Lord Massy was not only known for his title but also for being an extensive landowner in Ireland. He maintained residences in various parts of the country, including Hermitage in Castleconnell, Killakee in Co. Dublin, Anglesborough in Co. Limerick, and Mitchelstown in Co. Cork. His interest in agrarian matters was well-known, and he actively participated in the Irish Landowners’ Convention and the Agricultural Section of the Royal Dublin Society.
A keen sportsman and skilled shot, Lord Massy was actively involved in the Irish sports scene. He held the chairmanship of the Irish Game Protection Society until recently and advocated for the observance of game laws. Additionally, he supported fisheries in Ireland and chaired the Irish Salmon and Trout Fisheries’ Association, contributing significantly to the preservation of sport in the country.
In his public life, Lord Massy served as Deputy Lieutenant and Justice of the Peace for the counties of Leitrim and Limerick. He also held the position of High Sheriff in both counties. Despite his involvement in public affairs, Lord Massy had a lesser-known passion for art. He was a talented watercolour artist, with many of his works depicting Norwegian scenery and the river scenery of the Shannon near his residence.
The Massy family has a significant historical connection to Ireland, with Lord Massy’s great-grandfather, General Hugh Massy, commanding the army sent from England to subdue the Irish Rebellion of 1641.
The funeral arrangements for Lord Massy have been set for Thursday, with proceedings commencing from Castleconnell Railway Station upon the arrival of the 9:15 a.m. train from Dublin.
In a separate announcement, the passing of Surgeon Frank Houston, M.D., F.R.C.S.I., was also mourned. Dr Houston, a respected figure in the medical community, served as one of Ireland’s leading surgeons for many years, demonstrating a profound dedication to the advancement of surgical science.
The deaths of these notable figures mark the end of eras in their respective fields, leaving behind legacies that will be remembered and celebrated by many.
Dublin Daily Express – Monday 29 November 1915
