RIP: Community mourns the loss of respected Leitrim Traveller and tinsmith
Friends, neighbours and family are remembering Tom Stokes, one of Ireland’s last tinsmiths, for his skill, kindness and proud heritage.
There has been an outpouring of condolences in Carrick-on-Shannon following the passing of Tom Stokes, believed to have been one of the last tinsmiths in Ireland. He was widely known for his remarkable skill and was a much-loved figure in Leitrim and beyond.
Tom Stokes of Kilboderry, Carrick-on-Shannon passed away on Tuesday, June 9, at the age of 88. News of his passing has deeply saddened the people of Carrick-on-Shannon, with many locals reflecting on Tom’s lasting impact on the community.
He has been described as a “legend” and “the salt of the earth.” Tom was the father of 19 children and was married to his wife Mary for almost sixty years before her passing in 2019.
He lived to see five generations of his family and led a fulfilled life both as a tinsmith and as a well-respected man admired by many across the country.
One of Tom’s grandchildren, Chris Stokes, who is also a board member of the National Traveller Men’s Forum, was among the first to lead tributes online following his passing.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of my grandfather, Tom Stokes. A true legend and a true gentleman. Grandad, you meant everything to us all, and I am so grateful to have been lucky enough to have a grandfather like you,” Chris wrote on Facebook.
“You were always there for us, and the love, guidance, and memories you gave us will stay with me forever. You are loved and missed more than words can ever say. Thank you for everything you did for me. I will always be thankful and proud to have had you as my grandad. You're with Granny now, and I know she'll be happy to have you back by her side,” he added.
Local man and photographer Gerry Faughnan also paid tribute to Tom, praising both his craftsmanship and his remarkable ability to solve mathematical problems in his head while working, something he described as an amazing gift.
“Whether it was a pail or a ponger you wanted, Tom could make it. Though he told me he never got much of a chance school wise, I know Tom had an innate understanding of mathematics from the tools he used to draw out and cut the patterns in metal,” Gerry wrote on Facebook.
“He would speak exactly what the process was as his brain computed it. An amazing gift and skill,” he added.
Many more locals have since shared memories and tributes to Tom Stokes, highlighting the admiration and respect the community held for him.
“So sad to learn after a fruitful well lived life, admired widely, a good friend, neighbour, family man and person to trade with. A loss to the community and the history of many people passed and present he knew,” one person wrote.
Another described Tom as “the heart and soul of Carrick-on-Shannon” and “a true gentleman.”
Further messages shared online reflected on Tom’s pride in Traveller culture and his openness in sharing it with others.
“A lovely warm character, with a wealth of knowledge and skill. He welcomed me into his home and told me of his craft and language having never met me before, a testament of the pride he had in his culture. I know he will be dearly missed in your own family and around Carrick,” a local person shared.
Tom will repose at his home in Kilboderry, Carrick-on-Shannon (N41 T2C6) on Friday, June 12 from 1pm to 5pm. Funeral Mass for Tom will take place on Saturday, June 13, at 12pm in St Mary’s Church in Carrick-on-Shannon, followed by burial in St Mary’s Cemetery.