Born on 6 March 1931, Paddy spent his early years growing up in Chapel Hill, near Thomastown in County Kilkenny. His first steps in the profession were taken working in the local pharmacy. His appetite stimulated, he decided to forge a career, with a variety of roles that demonstrated his versatility and solid work ethic. His early years in pharmacy were, in common with his contemporaries, challenging. It was not without its great moments. He met the love of his life, Mary, as he worked in Rialto. Within a few years they had moved to Ballyfermot, where Paddy worked in Con Kiely’s pharmacy. Not only that, he also took up an extra job as a milkman, supporting his growing family in the most practical of ways. It was around this time that he also started in Abbottstown laboratories, which was the precursor to the State analysis service. It was here that he formalised his qualification, arriving on the PSI register in 1961. It is hard to believe that pharmacy in Ireland was in the midst of an existential crisis in the 1950’s and early 1960’s. Money was tight. Hours were long, and jobs were scarce. Paddy, in common with many of his contemporaries, ended up on the road, in his case as a rep for Smith, Kline and French. As you would expect, he took to the job well, revelling in easy conversations with both pharmacists and doctors. These were all aspects of a lifelong commitment to the field of pharmacy, becoming a pillar of expertise and support to both his colleagues and the communities that he worked in. His unwavering passion for his profession shone brightly through his years of service, leaving an indelible mark on all those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Given their industrious nature, it was no surprise that Paddy and Mary eventually decided that their future lied in pharmacy ownership. Dargle Pharmacy, in Bray, will be forever associated with them. It evolved into a three-pharmacy group, with one branch in Newtownmountkennedy. As many know, setting up successful businesses doesn’t fall into anyone’s lap. Paddy, through his varied experience, with years on the road understood that pharmacy was a team effort. He was an enthusiastic member of the IPU, generously giving his time, energy and knowledge to the benefit of his colleagues. Paddy was, before it was fashionable, a tech evangelist. A ham radio operator, he had a transceiver setup that was second to none. In an era before the internet, he was truly global, making friends and contacts in the farthest corners of the globe. His interest and knowledge in technology allowed him a vision for the future of pharmacy. He could see that the profession was going to depend on IT, and his mission was to nurture and encourage. Even as president of the IPU, he chaired he ‘Index and computerisation special group’, the forerunner of the ITSG, for years. He oversaw the evolution of the pricelist into a valuable information tool for every pharmacy. He drove standardisation, which allowed electronic ordering. It would be fair to say that Paddy’s foresight has left a legacy that still resonates in every Irish pharmacy, streamlining many of our processes.

Once Paddy stepped down, he reverted to what he truly loved. Back in Bray, Paddy was more than just a dispenser of medications; he was a beacon of empathy and understanding, offering a listening ear and a comforting presence to all who sought his assistance. His extensive knowledge and commitment, staying updated with the latest advancements, showcased his dedication to providing the best care possible to his patients.

With a warm smile and a kind heart, Paddy provided not only prescriptions but also a sense of reassurance to those in need. His compassion knew no bounds, and he consistently went the extra mile to ensure that each individual felt valued and cared for during their visits. Eventually, Paddy, with Mary, decided to call time on his everyday involvement in pharmacy. This didn’t stop him from still keeping in contact, and he was a stalwart at the IPU AGM up to fairly recently.

Beyond his professional achievements, Paddy was a cherished father to Paul and Bernard, a friend, and mentor. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift those he touched. Paddy also had a great faith. A lifelong Pioneer, in his latter years he was also a daily communicant. Even in deep retirement, his community spirit of volunteerism stayed strong.

In his 92 years of life, Paddy proved that kindness, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving others can have a profound impact on the world. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary individual, he exemplified the importance of empathy and the power of human connection.

Though Paddy may have left this world, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he created. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h’anam dílis.