The collision, which occurred on Sunday afternoon, involved two motorbikes. A male rider, named locally as Timmy (Louis) Collins, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mr Collins, is predeceased by his parents, Louis and Katie, and is deeply mourned by his heartbroken partner Mary, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, aunts Bridget and Madeline, uncle Tim, cousins, other relatives, neighbours, and a wide circle of friends, including many in the biking community.
News of his passing has rocked his home town of Abbeyfeale, where he was widely known and well-liked.
Paying tribute, local councillor Liam Galvin described Mr Collins as “one of the nicest people you could ever meet” and a “gentle giant”.
“He hadn’t an enemy on the planet,” he said. “He was so pleasant, so polite. Loved his bikes, just going for his cruises and driving around.
“He was not a daredevil on the bike, absolutely totally the opposite, it was what he lived for.”
Cllr Galvin, who had known Mr Collins for more than 35 years, added: “He was well liked in his job and always working. He had a fine house that he built himself and he came from a very respectable family.
“With two other naturally-caused deaths in the village this weekend, there’s a lot of sadness around Abbeyfeale at the moment,” he shared
Many in the community have taken online to express their sorrow.
One wrote: “I’m shocked and so saddened by Timmy’s passing. Many a time we stopped and spoke for long periods. Always a kind, gentle man with a friendly smile.”
Others shared memories of simple but cherished moments with the late 55-year-old: “Saddened to hear of Timmy’s tragic death. Ride free, Timmy.”
Another added: “Have happy memories of chatting with him when I worked in Abbeyfeale. Sympathies to Mary and all who mourn him.”
The second motorbike involved in the collision carried a male driver in his 60s and a female passenger. Both were taken by ambulance to University Hospital Kerry with non-life-threatening injuries.
Gardaí are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the collision, or who was travelling on the R560 between 4.15pm and 5pm with dashcam footage, to contact Tralee Garda Station.
Timmy Collins will repose at his home, Dromalainn, The Hill, Abbeyfeale, V94 P9CW, on Wednesday, September 10, from 5pm until 8pm.
Removal to The Church of The Assumption, Abbeyfeale, will take place on Thursday, September 11 at 1.15pm for Requiem Mass at 2pm.
Interment will follow in Reilig Íde Naofa, Abbeyfeale.