Michael was heavily involved with his local GAA Club – RIP
Danny De Vaal and Eoin Shortiss Reporter
15:16, 18 Jul 2026Updated 16:24, 18 Jul 2026

Michael Knightly – RIP
Hundreds of people are paying tribute following the death of a dad-of-two and husband in a road traffic collision in Co Tipperary this week.
Michael Knightly, 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on the R505 near Dundrum, Co. Tipperary on Thursday, 16th July. The incident occurred shortly before 5.50pm and the road was closed as emergency services attended the scene. Gardaí later launched an appeal for witnesses to the incident to come forward.
Tributes online share that Michael had a “huge impact” on his community, and he is remembered as a “gentleman and a true professional.” His funeral will take place on Monday in the Augustinian Abbey Church in Tipperary before he is buried in Calvary Cemetery, the Irish Mirror reports.
His death notice reads: “Knightly, Michael, Killerk North, Fethard, Co Tipperary and formerly of Shronell House, Lattin, Co Tipperary, July 16th 2026, in a tragic accident.
“Beloved husband of Áine, loving father of Alec and Sam, adored son of Joe and the late Mary and much-loved brother of Kate and Joseph. Predeceased by his mother Mary and brothers-in-law Richard and Roddy.”
The death notice on RIP.ie stipulates family flowers only with donations in lieu, if desired, to the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund.
Tributes have flooded in for the Tipperary man. One mourner said: “Words fail at a time like this. May God comfort you all. May Michael’s kind and gentle soul rest in peace in the arms of his loved ones.”
Another added: “Very saddened to hear of Michael’s passing. He was a great person and an absolute pleasure to work with over a number of years. My sincere condolences go to his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be greatly missed. RIP.”
A third said: “It was always a pleasure to hear from Michael, a gentleman and a true professional.”
While a fourth added: “I am so sorry for your loss. Sending you love, hugs & condolences. Michael obviously made a huge impact on your community & will be forever remembered. May he rest in peace. My thoughts are with you & your family.”
Michael was heavily involved with his local GAA club, Fethard GAA, serving as club treasurer for the past six years. Fethard GAA paid tribute to the dedicated clubman in a statement shared on social media.
“Fethard GAA club would like to express their deepest condolences to Michaels wife Aine, his two sons Alec and Sam and all his family and friends at the sad passing of Michael. Michael was not only our club treasurer for the past 6 years but was also a valued member of our club.
“Michael’s contribution to Fethard GAA was invaluable and his true commitment to the club was a testament to the gentleman he was. Michael’s presence will be sadly missed by the whole community of Fethard.
“As a mark of respect all games and training have been cancelled this weekend. May he rest in peace.”