RIP: Tributes paid to late Tipperary man who was a 'gentle giant'

Seamus ‘Tiny’ Butler has passed away.

The Thurles man passed peacefully on Wednesday, January 14.

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Seamus is predeceased by his parents Nora and Jimmy.

He is deeply regretted by his heartbroken family; devoted wife Catherine (née Burke), sons James and Frankie, daughter Grace, sisters Eileen and Geraldine, brother John, father-in-law Frank, nephews, nieces, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, uncle Tony, aunt Ann, relatives, neighbours and friends.

He will lay in repose in Hugh Ryan's Funeral, Slievenamon Road, Thurles on Sunday, January 18, from 5pm to 7pm.

He will then arrive at the Cathedral of the Assumption, Thurles on Monday, January 19, at 10:30am for Requiem Mass at 11am.

Burial will follow afterwards in St Patrick's Cemetery, Thurles.

Seamus was a popular figure in the Thurles community, with Thurles Rugby Club sharing a touching tribute on social media, saying: “The community of Thurles Rugby Football Club has been deeply saddened by the passing of Seamus Butler, known and loved by all as Tiny. The news of his death spread quickly and brought with it a profound sense of shock and loss. Although Seamus had been ill for only a short time, it is difficult to comprehend his passing, as he was still very much in the prime of his life - a man full of presence, purpose, and quiet strength.

“Seamus joined Thurles RFC as a 17-year-old, and from the very beginning, it was clear that he was someone you could rely on. By 1992, he had become a regular member of the first team, earning his place not through flash or fuss, but through sheer commitment, honesty, and hard work. He understood the values of the club instinctively - loyalty, teamwork, and giving everything for the jersey, and he lived those values every time he took to the field. Tiny was an integral part of one of the most memorable periods in the club’s history. In 1993, he played a key role in the Munster Junior Clubs Challenge Cup winning team, a remarkable achievement that was followed by significant success in the Senior Cup that same year. His list of honours reflects not only his talent, but his consistency and durability over many seasons: a Munster Junior Plate in 1993, Garryowen/Mansergh Cup doubles in 1994 and 1997, a Mansergh Cup win in 1998, and a Casey Cup victory in 1991. These were hard-earned successes, built on teamwork and trust, and Tiny was at the heart of them.

“In 1997, his immense contribution to the club was formally recognised when he was named Club Player of the Year - an honour that meant a great deal, not just because of the award itself, but because it came from teammates and friends who knew exactly what he brought to the game.

“Tiny never sought attention or praise. He led by example. He turned up, did the work, and supported those around him. Younger players looked up to him, and teammates trusted him implicitly. He was someone you wanted beside you when things got tough - calm, dependable, and quietly determined.

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“Away from rugby, Seamus was every bit as hardworking. His daily life as a timber merchant on the Mill Road provided all the physical conditioning he ever needed. There was no need for gym sessions or training plans - his work ethic was built into who he was. And yet, despite his strong sense of responsibility, he understood the importance of balance. When the weather was right, the familiar sign would go up on the gate “Gone Fishing” and that was that for the day.

“Fishing was more than a pastime for Tiny; it was a passion. He was a highly accomplished angler, reaching the very pinnacle of the sport by representing Ireland on numerous occasions in international fishing competitions throughout Europe. Those who fished with him knew his skill, his patience, and his deep respect for the sport and the outdoors. It was a place where he found peace, focus, and joy.

“But above all else, Tiny was a family man. His devotion to Catherine & his children James, Frankie, and Grace was unwavering and they always came first, they joyfully followed and supported each of them in all their pursuits. Whether on the sideline, in the crowd, or quietly in the background, he was always there - encouraging, steady, and proud.

“To Catherine, James, Frankie, and Grace, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences. No words can ease the pain of your loss, but please know that Seamus was deeply respected, admired, and loved by all who knew him.

“For those of us who had the privilege of calling him a friend, a teammate, or simply sharing his company, his absence will be felt for a very long time. We will miss his presence, his reliability, his quiet humour, and the sense of assurance he brought wherever he went. We are grateful for the memories, the matches, the conversations, and the friendship.

“Tiny was one of those rare people who made a lasting impact simply by being himself. He leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, integrity, and kindness - within his family, his club, and his community. Though he is gone, he will never be forgotten, and his name will always be spoken with respect and affection in Thurles RFC.

“As a mark of respect, all training and games have been postponed this weekend. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”

Similarly, the Trout Anglers Federation of Ireland shared a tribute to Seamus, saying: “It is with deep regret that TAFI have been informed of the passing of Seamus Butler. Seamus or affectionately known by most of us as Tiny was the TAFI Munster Chairman a post he was proud to hold.

“He represented the Tafi organisation and his fellow anglers with distinction. Tiny was a gentle giant and anyone that ever met him was greeted like a long lost friend such was the warmth he expressed when talking with him.

“In his role as Chair he ran his meetings without fear or favour and treated everyone the same regardless of who they were. He will be sadly missed by us all in TAFI and no doubt the wider community.

“Thank you for everything Tiny, it was our pleasure to be associated with you and we send our sincerest and heartfelt sympathies to Catherine and all your family and friends. Rip our friend.”