RIP: Tributes paid to late Tipperary man who served fire brigade for over 30 years

The death has occurred of Jim Norris, of 10 Monakeeba, Thurles.

Jim passed away on April 10, 2026, in the care of St Vincents Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin.

READ MORE: Military honours for a dedicated Tipperary soldier and a respected family man

He is predeceased by his parents Sean and Josie, brother John, son-in-law David (Sully) and brother-in-law Joe.

He will be sadly missed by his beloved wife Patricia, his daughter Josephine, son James, daughter-in-law Sinead, adored grandchildren Amelia, Sophia and Lauren, his sister Madeline, nieces Paula and Laura, nephews Sean, Mark, Richard and Sean, sisters-in-law, extended family, colleagues in Thurles Rugby Club and Thurles Fire Brigade, wonderful neighbours and many friends.

May he rest in peace.

Jim lay in repose in Kennedy's Funeral Home, Thurles, on Monday evening from 5pm to 7pm.

The funeral cortege arrived at the Cathedral of the Assumption, Thurles on Tuesday morning at 10:30am for Funeral Mass at 11am, followed by burial in St. Patrick's cemetery.

Thurles RFC shared a tribute to Jim on social media, outlining how much of a loss Jim will be to the local community.

They said: “We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jim Norris this afternoon.

“Jim was a true gentleman and a valued member of Thurles Rugby Club for many years. Whether as a player, committee member, coach, or most recently as one of our dedicated groundskeepers, Jim gave so much of his time, energy, and heart to the club. He was a good friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing him, and his presence will be sorely missed by everyone at Thurles RFC

“Jim’s contribution to the club and the community will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of a man who always had time to stop and chat, and always had a smile on his face.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Patricia, Josephine, James and Jim’s extended family and wide circle of friends and clubmates at this difficult time.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Tipperary Fire & Rescue Service echoed the sentiment, sharing a tribute to their former colleague, saying: “We are deeply saddened about the untimely passing of our former colleague Sub Station Officer Jim Norris.

“Jim gave an amazing 32 years service to Thurles Fire Brigade. Jim was a pure gentleman, a great leader and highly respected by his colleagues and friends who worked along side him.

“Our thoughts are with his wife Patricia, his daughter Josephine, son James, grandchildren Amelia, Sophia and Lauren, who he adored.

“Rest in peace Jim.”

Many others paid tribute to Jim online, emphasising his character and gentle, friendly nature.

READ MORE: Familiarity for Tipperary with the match referee appointed for Munster hurling clash with Cork

One person said: “My deepest condolences to the Norris family of the very sad passing of Jim. Jim was a true gentleman and an exceptional fire officer. A true professional and wonderful company. May his gentle soul rest in peace.”

Another said: “Sympathy to Patricia, Madeline and all the Norris family on the sad passing of Jim. It was a real pleasure to meet such a lovely friendly, pleasant, good humoured fellow. May he rest in eternal peace.”

One person outlined Jim’s dedication to the Thurles Fire Brigade, saying: “Deepest sympathy to the Norris family on the sad passing of Jim. I remember and appreciate his dedication during his time with Thurles Fire Brigade. May he Rest in Peace.”

Another remarked: “Jim was an absolute gentleman and an excellent Fire Fighter and Officer. A very genuine person who always great company to be in. Deepest condolences to Jim's family at this time. May he Rest in Peace.”