‘An honourable and genuine man’: Former Cork councillor's funeral takes place today. 

Tributes have been paid to a former Cork county councillor who has been described as “one of life’s gentlemen”.

Kevin Conway, a former independent councillor from Blarney, died at Cork University Hospital (CUH) on Saturday after a long illness.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated at 3pm today in line with public health guidelines, and will be streamed online.

Mr Conway, who had been battling multiple myeloma in recent years and underwent a stem cell transplant almost six years ago, ran his last election campaign from his hospital bed.

A community activist for more than 30 years, Mr Conway served as chairperson of Blarney Community Council and has been praised for his role in developing tourism in the area.

Mayor of Cork County, Mary Linehan Foley (Ind) described Mr Conway as “one of life’s gentlemen”.

“He was a friend as well as a colleague and he was always there with a helping hand or a bit of advice for anyone who needed it,” she said.

“We were elected at the same time and we became close friends during our time in County Hall.

“He was a great community man who would do anything for his constituents and he’ll be sadly missed in Blarney and across Cork,” she added.

“Even when he was ill, he would never talk about it or about giving up.

“He fought the good fight throughout, and was keen to help others.

“He truly was one of life’s gentlemen - an honourable and genuine man.” The Mayor added that her thoughts and prayers are with Mr Conway’s wife Ber and wider family at this sad time.

Cllr Ian Doyle (FF) expressed his sadness at Mr Conway’s passing.

“We were great friends and I was truly sorry to hear of his passing.

“Kevin was hugely respected and liked in his native Blarney, where he did great work for many years.

“He was a true gentleman and will be sadly missed.” Cllr Seamus McGrath (FF) said Mr Conway faced his battle with illness with great courage and dignity.

“I want to extend my deepest sympathies to his family and close friends.

“When I was County Mayor in 2016/2017, Kevin acted as Deputy County Mayor and it was a role he fulfilled with huge pride,” he added.

“He did an excellent job and assisted me on numerous occasions.

“He was a genuine and committed servant of his community and made a great contribution.

“May he rest in peace.” Mr Conway is survived by his wife Bernadette, their four children, Mary, Kevin, Carol, and Cormac, and his mother, Mary.

The family asked that donations, in lieu of flowers, be made to CUH Charity.

An online book of condolences is available from tomorrow at www.yourcouncil.ie.