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ultimate sacrifice Council worker killed during Storm Eunice to be laid to rest later today

The 59-year-old died after being hit by a fallen tree close to his home in the north Wexford last Friday

The late Billy Kinsella. Expand

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The late Billy Kinsella.

The late Billy Kinsella.

The late Billy Kinsella.

Neil Fetherstonhaugh

County council worker Billy Kinsella who was killed during Storm Eunice will be laid to rest later today.

The 59-year-old died after being hit by a tree close to his home in the north Wexford last Friday as he was clearing debris from the road with a colleague.

His death notice on RIP.ie reads: "Billy (William) of Ballythomas Hill, Gorey, Wexford (died) following an accident on February 18.

“Beloved husband of Rita and loving father of Conor, son of the late Paddy and Bridie, brother of Patrick, Elizabeth, Shay, Sean and Aileen.

“Deeply regretted by his loving wife and son, his brothers and sisters, aunts, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, grandnephews, grandnieces, extended family, relatives, neighbours, work colleagues and friends.”

His funeral will take place at the Church of Our Lady of the Nativity, Ballyfad, for Mass at 3pm followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

“The family very much appreciate your support and co-operation during this very sad and difficult time,” the notice adds.

In the condolences section people have been expressing their sympathies in heartfelt messages including one for Bord Na Man that reads: “You were very kind to us on Friday and we were all so shocked and saddened to hear of your passing moments after helping us. May the light of heaven shine bright for you.”

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Another adds: “Condolences to Billy's wife Rita, son Conor, extended family, friends and work colleagues on the death of Billy.

“May Billy rest in eternal peace. Billy made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us all safe. My thoughts and prayers are also with his colleagues and all those who work tirelessly in all types of challenging situations to keep us safe. Bless you all.”

Earlier, Wexford TD Verona Murphy paid tribute to the council worker, writing: “RIP Billy Kinsella, in carrying out his work to ensure the safety of others, clearing debris, Billy lost his life,” Ms Murphy’s tribute began

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“In expressing sincere sympathy to his wife Rita, his son Conor, work colleagues at Wexford Co, his extended family, friends and wider community at this very sad time, united in grief."

A neighbour of the Kinsella family, Wexford County Councillor Anthony Donohue, described Billy as a hard-working father.

“If he could do anything for you, he would. As a community, we’re just devastated,” he told sundayworld.com

“I haven’t got to see his family yet, but his wife Rita and his son Conor, they must be just devastated.

“It is the second tragedy in the space of hours, we’re completely numb,” he said.

“My other neighbour, a mother of one, just didn’t wake up this morning.

“They live just a kilometre for each other, so the community is reeling.”

Wexford TD James Browne also paid tribute to the father of one: "Very sad news about the Wexford County Council worker who was fatally injured during Storm Eunice today.

"I want to extend my deepest sympathies to his family, colleagues and community at this very sad time."

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam," he added.

TD Simon Harris said: "Such sad news emerging from the Wicklow-Wexford border this afternoon.

"My thoughts are with the man’s family, friends and community after such a tragic accident."

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene but Mr Kinsella was later pronounced dead.

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