Sir Tony O’Reilly, former Irish rugby international and prominent businessman, has died at the age of 88.
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) paid tribute, calling him a “legend of the game” on social media. They extended their deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
Ireland’s deputy premier, Simon Harris, described Sir Tony as a “trailblazer” who made significant contributions to Irish business, sport, media, and society.
Sir Tony passed away at St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin on Saturday. His family expressed their grief, noting, “In the coming days there will be many worthy tributes to Tony O’Reilly’s unique achievements in business and sport, as well as his philanthropic vision seen through the Ireland Funds. But for us, he was a dearly-loved dad and granddad.”
Born in Dublin in 1936, Sir Tony began his rugby career with an international debut for Ireland in 1955. He soon became the youngest player selected for the British Lions, representing England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
In business, Sir Tony was instrumental in creating the dairy brand Kerrygold, which became one of Ireland’s best-known global brands. He later became chairman of Heinz and took control of Independent Newspapers in 1973, overseeing publications like the Irish Independent, Sunday Independent, and Evening Herald.
Sir Tony was also a notable philanthropist, establishing The Ireland Funds, which directed money from US donors to reconciliation projects around the Irish border.
He held dual Irish and British nationality and was knighted in 2001 by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to Northern Ireland.
Simon Harris reflected on Sir Tony’s impact, saying, “Mr. O’Reilly was a giant in sport, business, and media. He aimed big on the international stage and paved the way for many Irish business figures. He truly believed Ireland could be central to the world.”
Ireland’s deputy premier Micheal Martin also paid tribute, calling Sir Tony a “pioneering spirit” who had a remarkable impact on Irish society. He highlighted Sir Tony’s role in changing the global narrative on peace and reconciliation through the Ireland Funds.
Sir Tony O’Reilly leaves behind six children.