Capt James Kelly, the Army officer acquitted in the 1970 Arms Trial, who died on Wednesday aged 73, was described yesterday as a simple man who had fought for over 30 years to protect his integrity.
At the removal ceremony in the church of Mary Immaculate, Refuge of Sinners, Rathmines, Dublin, his brother Father Oliver Kelly said Capt Kelly had fought not only for himself but for others. He identified with the underdog.
Father Oliver, who was assisted by another brother, Father Martin Kelly, said he had seen the captain last week. "I said you had a turbulent life, but he said no, he told me it was very simple."
Capt Kelly had loved the simple things like fishing, football, stories of his parents' people, carving bog wood. He had a contagious enthusiasm.
Father Kelly said the turbulent side of his career came when he was in the Army and then the Arms Trial. "He felt he was a victim of injustice. For over 30 years he fought tooth and nail to protect his integrity."
Capt Kelly was acquitted at the Arms Trial and said he felt vindicated recently when he won a libel case.
"Just a few days ago, it was good to hear the Taoiseach talking of him as a man of integrity," Father Kelly said. The former Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader, Mr John Bruton, had also stood up for him.
The chief mourners were his wife Sheila, daughters Suzanne, Jacqui, Sylvia and Sheila, sons Peter and Justin, and his 10 grandchildren.
Among those attending the removal were former Taoisigh Mr Albert Reynolds and Mr Bruton; and Mr John Kelly, Belfast, who was acquitted with Capt Kelly at the Arms Trial.
Others mourners were Mrs Cecilia Boland, widow of the late Kevin Boland, and his brother, Mr Annraoi (Harry) Boland; the brother of the late Mr Neil Blaney, Mr Harry Blaney; and former TD Mr Seán Sherwin.
Attending in a private capacity was the Attorney General, Mr Rory Brady SC. Other members of the legal profession present included Mr Justice Hardiman.
Also in the congregation were Aer Rianta chairman, Mr Noel Hanlon; former minister, Mr Tom O'Donnell; TDs including Mr Joe Costello, Mr Conor Lenihan and Mr Ned O'Keeffe, and former Army comrades.
The funeral will take place today after 10 a.m. Mass to Glasnevin cemetery.