Tragic passing of popular Mullingar man Toss Maher

The Mullingar community is mourning the sad passing of Toss Maher, Grange Meadows, Mullingar, who died on Friday July 18, aged 57, following a brave 19-month battle with severe brain injuries sustained in an unprovoked assault in January 2024.

Toss, a native of Clonmore, Mullingar, and a widely known and well-liked figure in the town, never recovered from the catastrophic injuries he suffered during the incident. Despite round-the-clock care and the unwavering support of his family, his condition remained critical until his passing in Galway University Hospital. His devoted loved ones were by his side.

The assault was described in court as “vicious and unprovoked”. Paul Earley (60), of Donearl House, Meedin, Tyrrellspass, County Westmeath, was jailed for seven years earlier this year for delivering the single blow that caused the injury. The court heard that Toss had simply been out enjoying a social evening, something he frequently did in his hometown, a place he loved and where he was much loved in return.

Toss was a proud Mullingar man, born to the late Tom and Ollie Maher. He enjoyed a full and active life until the night of the assault. Known for his easygoing charm and warm personality, Toss was someone who lit up any room he entered. A devoted family man, he is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Tina, with whom he shared a strong and loving bond, and their five cherished children Lisa (Robbie), Dean (Leah), Thomas (Kim), Deanna (Calem), and Dylan (Chloe), along with his adored grandchildren, sister, brother, extended family.

Toss led a varied and industrious working life. He was a familiar face in the Midlands Regional Hospital Mullingar, where he worked in security for many years before progressing to a supervisory role. He also had a stint in construction, working alongside his good friend Martin Lynam.

However, it was in the role of taxi driver that Toss became most recognised around Mullingar, working in the industry for more than two decades. Employed by Begley’s Taxi, Toss was a popular and reliable driver who formed strong friendships with colleagues and customers alike. Many of his former colleagues gathered to pay tribute to him before his funeral in Mullingar on Monday.

A guard of honour was provided as the funeral cortège made its way from Grange Meadows to The Cathedral of Christ The King.

Johnny Doyle, chairman of the local Taxi Association, said everyone working in the industry locally is distraught at Toss’s passing. “We would like to offer our condolences to his wife Tina, and all the family. Toss’s tragic passing is beyond words and he will be fondly remembered by all who work in the taxi business in the town. We have lost a dear colleague and friend, and we are still coming to terms with this sad news,” he said.

Described as gregarious, fun-loving, and deeply family-oriented, Toss loved to travel – particularly with Tina – on holidays to destinations like Tenerife and Turkey. He also had a soft spot for Edinburgh, where he had a circle of friends and made fond memories. A talented dancer, he especially enjoyed jiving to country music, and was often the first on the floor at social gatherings. His good humour, sense of fun, and generous spirit were the hallmarks of his personality.

His tragic and untimely passing has left a deep void in the community. Friends and neighbours were left shocked in the aftermath of the assault in 2024, and rallied around the Maher family in the months that followed. A successful benefit night was organised locally to support Toss’s care needs and to assist his family through what was an unimaginably difficult time.

Toss Maher will be remembered with enormous affection by all who knew him. He was a person full of life, with a kind word for everyone, who faced unthinkable circumstances with courage and dignity. His passing is a profound loss, to his family, and to his community in Mullingar and beyond.

Toss’s late father, Tom, was born in Ballynacargy and he has many cousins and relations in the village, all of whom are mourning his loss.

At his funeral on Monday morning, Fr Norman Allred, celebrant, spoke of Toss’s love of music and how he enjoyed attending performances featuring his brother-in-law who played in a country band. Fr Norman spoke of the great joy of Toss’s life, his wife Tina, who he first saw in a photo before he actually met her.

The gifts brought forward at the start of the funeral Mass included Toss’s passport, phone and his taxi badge, and his great love of cars was also mentioned. Fr Allred spoke of the great shock and huge sense of loss for Toss’s family and loved ones.