Tony Lawless’ son shared the sad news on social media earlier today
The Morgue pub
The death of an iconic Dublin publican has sparked a flood of tributes online.
Tony Lawless, a beloved publican who most recently owned The Morgue, passed away on Sunday night following a long illness, Dublin Live reports. The owner of the pub, which was previously known as The Templeogue Inn, died peacefully, his son David confirmed.
“Some sad news today, for myself and my family,” David Lawless, who now manages the venue, posted on social media. “Tony died peacefully last night after a long illness and will be missed by us all. He was a mentor for Me and Suzanne and a part of Templeogue Village for 41 years.”
The Morgue was one of a number of pubs in the capital – such as Crumlin’s The Village Inn – which had been owned by Tony over the decades and tributes have flooded in for the well-respected figure in Dublin hospitality.
Local restaurant owner Brendan Hughes of the Pines led the tributes, saying: “So sorry to hear this news, sincere condolences to Dave, Suzanne & family. Part of the original fold of publicans in the area. A great character & friend. RIP Tony.”
One former employee added: “Sad to hear of Tony’s passing. I worked for him many years ago in the Village Inn, he didn’t suffer fools lightly, you knew exactly where you stood with him. I enjoyed working for him…Mutual respect. Fondly know as Basil Fawlty. Condolences to Tony’s family.”
Another local said: “So sorry to hear this David – dad loved going there & chatting to Tony about the price of the pint ! it’s very tough to lose your father – my deepest sympathies.”
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