Oliver, a huge figure in the life of Ennis, passes away

The term ‘larger than life’ can be over-used, but in the case of Oliver Moylan RIP it’s the perfect description, writes Margaret O’Brien.

Oliver was never short of an opinion and had the courage of his own convictions. However, his arguments were tempered with charm and wry humour.

An Ennis man through and through. With Oliver it was town first and county second. He grew up in Ennis, he swam at the Turret, played tennis at Ennis Tennis Club, golfed at Ennis Golf Club and ran a successful family business in the heart of town.

He had a strong civic spirit and served as President Ennis Golf Club, Ennis Tennis Club and Ennis Chamber, while also serving on the board of Chambers Ireland. He was a director CLDC and served as Chair of the Clare Association of An Taisce.

Oliver has been at the helm of Ennis Cash Company since taking over from his father Dr Patrick Moylan in 1958. Ennis Cash Company on O’Connell Street is one of the longest established retail outlets in Ennis, it has been in the Moylan family since 1880.

There is also a household linens and haberdashery shop located on Arthur’s Row. The men’s outfitters is known for its range of exclusive brands including Barbour and Harris tweeds and famous for its selection of men’s hats, including distinctive straw Panama and felt fedoras which take pride of place in the window.

Always very proud of his educational achievements, Oliver Moylan held a BComm and an M.Econ.Sc. from National University Dublin and was a Fulbright Graduate of Michigan State University.

A character whose like will not be seen again, Oliver will be missed by fellow traders in Ennis and fellow members of Ennis Chamber and Ennis Chamber Executive Board, of which he was a long-standing member.

At 87, Oliver never missed an in-person meeting, and attended Ennis Chamber’s most recent meeting in July. His insightful observations will be missed. Sympathies to Peter, Dorothy and family and to Oliver’s extended family.

Reposing at Daly’s Mortuary Chapel, Francis Street, Ennis, on Saturday from 6pm to 7pm. Arriving for Funeral Mass in The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, Ennis, on Sunday at 1pm followed by Cremation in Shannon Crematorium at 3pm.