Damien was one of life’s true gentlemen
People throughout the Enniscorthy and Clonroche area are trying to come to terms with the unexpected passing of Damien Furlong, from Dranagh, Caim following a short illness.
Damien (51) died peacefully in Waterford University Hospital on Sunday, May 31. He had been admitted to Wexford General Hospital just seven weeks previously. Due to be married to his fiancée, Sarah Masterson, in 2021, he wished for the wedding to be brought forward and they were married on Monday, May 18. He is survived by his wife, Sarah, his brothers, Padraig, Drew, Paul, Barry and his sister, Lisa, along with his many nieces and nephews. Following Funeral Mass in St Carthage’s Church in Courtnacuddy, he was interred in the adjoining graveyard on Tuesday, June 2.
Damien was the son of well-known local farmer Andy Furlong and Primary School teacher May Furlong. He attended primary school at Courtnacuddy NS, before attending secondary school as a boarder in Good Counsel College, New Ross. He studied for an Agricultural Science Diploma at WIT. His career saw him work in the agricultural provider industry and held positions at both Cooney Furlong and Glanbia. He worked at Glanbia for almost 20 years at their stores in Ballywilliam and most recently at Clonroche. His interaction with the many farmers in the area is highlighted by the huge volume of condolences which have been received from the farming community. They all praise his work ethic, helpfulness, advice and his willingness to go that extra mile to assist them day or night. Not content with his day job, Damien would often be seen assisting Sarah in her shop, The Kiosk newsstand in Abbey Square. He was well-liked by their many customers, who say he will be sorely missed.
Away from work, Damien spent his time researching local history and would often visit historical landmarks both in Ireland and overseas with Sarah. He had a passion for nature but above all he adored his nieces and nephews. None more so than his goddaughter, Aoise, who he would treat as if she were his own. Not happy to just spoil Aoise, he would make sure that all his nieces and nephews were spoilt be they in Dranagh, Glanmire or Kinnitty and would spend many an afternoon, driving the length and breadth of the country with presents, magazines or sweet treats.
Damien was a gentle soul, always smiling, always happy, with the kindest of nature and is best described as one of life’s true gentlemen. May he rest in peace.