THE death has occurred of Tom Hurley MRCVS MVB, peacefully at home in Cuffesgrange, Co Kilkenny following a long illness, bravely borne.

Tom was widely known within the Irish equine industry, with a broad circle of friends, colleagues and acquaintances. He qualified as a veterinary surgeon from UCD in 1956 and had a long career in veterinary, in private practice, and with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

In 1987, Tom was appointed an Inspector for the Irish Horse Register and for 26 years was an integral part of its structure. He was a hugely knowledgeable veterinarian and horseman with a gentle and approachable nature which he used to help mare and stallion owners understand any veterinary issues that arose. Tom was also the Studbook’s Breeding Veterinary advisor for many years, in that role, he liaised with his veterinary colleagues, on behalf of the Irish Horse Board, to ensure consistent standards were applied for all studbook vettings.

In 2013, he received a special award from Horse Sport Ireland in recognition of his contribution to the Irish Horse Register. Tom was recognised for his professionalism and integrity in carrying out his duties and for always being a “consummate gentleman”.

Tom was a keen amateur point-to-point rider in his youth and later a keen hunting enthusiast. He farmed in Kilkenny building successful enterprises in equine, dairy and sheep. He bred and produced sport horses and thoroughbreds for nearly 60 years and was a regular at Goresbridge, Goffs and Tattersalls Sales.

A softly spoken, kind, gentle person who just ‘knew’ horses, Tom was always happy to talk equine and farming and took great pride in passing on his knowledge to family and others who shared his interests. He was an inspiration to many.

His integrity, respect for people and his absolute passion for his profession shone through always. A committed family man, Tom will be deeply missed by his wife Monica, daughters Anne, Mary, Jane and Ruth, his sister Ann, in-laws, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Tom Hurley was laid to rest on January 25th after a private Funeral mass in Danesfort.