Tributes on passing of Offaly journalist

Warm tributes have been paid to Offaly journalist Geoff Oakley, who died earlier this week in his 93rd year.

Mr Oakley has been described as a model local newspaper editor whose work made a significant difference to his community. Geoff was the first editor of the Tullamore Tribune. His passing marks the breaking of the last link with the now defunct King’s County Chronicle, Birr where he began his career in 1945. He joined the Midland Tribune, Birr in 1948 and was instrumental in the establishment of the Tullamore Tribune in 1978.

Noted for his meticulous shorthand and attention to detail Geoff Oakley is remembered as a mentor to a generation of journalists.

He was a former officer of Athlone and District branch of the National Union of Journalists. He was made life member along with former branch chair and close friend the late Eddie Rogers.

In a tribute Offaly historian Michael Byrne recalled Oakley’s support for the maintenance of health services in Offaly, citing him as an influential figure in the county.

“Geoff made a singular contribution to the saving of the hospital in Tullamore in the mid-1970s with the help of the Offaly Committee to save the Hospital. Week after week the articles poured out and the pressure that was piled on secured the hospital and paved the way for the new hospital from the late 1990s” wrote Mr Byrne in the Offaly History website.

Séamus Dooley, Assistant General Secretary, NUJ said: “By din of hard work and sheer commitment Geoff Oakley helped enrich his community. He was a model regional newspaper editor who believed that journalism matters and he never lost his zeal for local news. He was a mentor, a champion of community causes and a strong defender of local democracy. His knowledge of local government and his commitment to covering local authority meetings on behalf of citizens was a remarkable feature of his long career.”

Tullamore Musical Society also extended its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Geoff Oakley.

"Geoff wrote our book '50 Golden Years' and was always a great friend to TMS. He was a true gentleman with a wonderful way with words," it said, in a Facebook post.

Predeceased by his beloved wife Dorothy and brother Alec, Geoff is deeply regretted by his sister Barbara, his brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends. His funeral service was held on Friday afternoon in St. Catherine's Church of Ireland, Hop Hill, Tullamore with interment afterwards in St. Catherine's Cemetery, Clonminch, Tullamore.