Paddy Shanley was one of the longest-serving solicitors in the West of Ireland. He was educated by the Christian Brothers in Westport and Castleknock College before receiving a B.A. degree from University College, Dublin in 1933. He subsequently qualified as a solicitor in 1936. He commenced practice in Dublin and remained there until his return to Westport in 1947. During that time Paddy was actively involved in various organisations in Dublin and was at one time secretary to the Fine Gael National Executive.
After his return to Westport he served on Westport Urban District Council as a Fine Gael member as well as serving with the Westport Harbour Commissioners, and was also a member of the Mayo Vocational Education Committee. Paddy was an accomplished linguist, whose love of art, music, literature and particularly history was well known. He collected a large library which he subsequently gave to various friends and acquaintances whom he met and whom he felt had an interest in books.
Paddy loved company and civilised conversation and would impart his deep knowledge to all who sought it. He was a kind and generous man who participated wholeheartedly in all organisations in which he was involved. He was a founding member of the committee set up for the restoration of Holy Trinity Church of Ireland in Westport, one of Westport's most beautiful and oldest buildings. His inspiration and work on the committee was greatly appreciated by all who participated.
In his pursuit of knowledge Paddy travelled extensively and in fact studied in Moscow during the 1960s for a number of weeks at the height of the Cold War; he also travelled on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Throughout his life he travelled extensively throughout most of Europe and the United States. To his professional colleagues Paddy was always courteous and helpful and he was always supportive and understanding with his clients.
Ms Breege Walsh, his secretary for 47 years, his brother Charlie and sister Gertie and nephews and nieces have the sympathy of very many people and the shared memory of a unique and well loved gentleman.