Businessman Tony O’Reilly Dies at 88

Tony O’Reilly, a prominent figure in Irish business and sports, passed away at the age of 88. O’Reilly died on Saturday at St Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin. Known for his contributions to business, media, and sports, O’Reilly also played international rugby for Ireland and the British and Irish Lions.

Born in Dublin in 1936, O’Reilly debuted in international rugby in 1955, becoming the youngest player selected for the Lions. He pioneered the dairy brand Kerrygold, transforming it into a globally recognized brand. He later became chairman of Heinz and took over Independent Newspapers in 1973, which publishes the Irish Independent, Sunday Independent, and Evening Herald.

O’Reilly was honored for his philanthropic efforts, notably through the establishment of The Ireland Funds, which channeled US donations into reconciliation projects around the Irish border. He held joint Irish and British nationality and was knighted in 2001 by Queen Elizabeth II for his service to Northern Ireland.

Micheál Martin, Ireland’s deputy premier, acknowledged O’Reilly’s significant impact on various fields, expressing his condolences along with the Irish Rugby Football Union.

Tony O’Reilly is survived by six children.