RIP: Tributes paid after the passing of former Tipperary Senator and celebrated hurler

The Tipperary community is mourning the loss of one of its most dedicated public figures, Anthony “Tony” McKenna of Ballyhaden, Borrisokane, who passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve at Ashlawn House Nursing Home, Nenagh, aged 86.
Born and bred in Borrisokane, Tony was a lifelong community advocate whose political career spanned local and national arenas.

He began his work in public service as a North Tipperary county councillor in the 1970s, later becoming chairman of the council, and after the county’s amalgamation also served as Mayor of Tipperary County Council from 2000 to 2001.

At national level, he represented Fianna Fáil in Seanad Éireann, first elected to the Cultural and Educational Panel in 1987. Although losing his seat two years later, he was reappointed by Taoiseach Charles Haughey, serving until 1992.

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Many recall Tony’s extraordinary 140-mile solo charity run in 1982, guiding a sliotar on his hurl from Borrisokane through every Tipperary town to Dublin, completed over seven days. The effort was aimed at raising awareness and funds for a day care centre for the elderly, a facility that would eventually open decades later.

His commitment to education was also reflected in his long service on the North Tipperary Vocational Education Committee, including as chair, and a term as senior vice-president of the Irish Vocational Education Association.

Outside politics, Tony pursued a career in education and management. He was a vocational teacher and held a Bachelor of Commerce degree from UCD (1965), along with a postgraduate diploma in remedial education. He also served as secretary of the Marath Manufacturing Company in Tipperary.

Tony came from a large and accomplished family. He was one of 15 children, including his brother John “Mackey” McKenna, a celebrated hurler who died earlier in 2025, and another brother, Ger McKenna, the famed greyhound trainer known on both sides of the Irish Sea.

His sister Philomena survives him.

He was married to Phyllis, who predeceased him, and is survived by their children Deirdre, Malachy and Tony, along with six grandchildren.

Mr McKenna’s passing has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from across Tipperary.

Messages on RIP.ie reflect deep appreciation for his kindness, community spirit and lifelong involvement in public life, with many remembering him as a true gentleman and a neighbour who was always ready to help.

His funeral is scheduled to take place in Borrisokane on Friday, January 2.