Dry stock farmer Richard ‘Wally’ Prendergast was pronounced dead at the scene following the smash on the N25 between Youghal and Dungarvan at Kinsalebeg

Dry stock farmer Richard “Wally” Prendergast

This is the first picture of a Co Waterford farmer and grandad who died after his car collided with a bus on Sunday.

Dry stock farmer Richard ‘Wally’ Prendergast was pronounced dead at the scene following the smash on the N25 between Youghal and Dungarvan at Kinsalebeg.

The crash occurred shortly before 8pm and involved a Bus Éireann Expressway coach. No bus passengers suffered life-threatening injuries.

Tributes have since poured in for Mr Prendergast, who was in his mid-60s.

One said: “So sorry for your untimely loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.”

Garda road closed sign (stock image)

Another commented: “We always had great chats around the cow’s and calves. Year’s ago i changed from Charlois to Hereford cow’s. Wally used to call me a traitor, cos i changed breed of cow’s .I’ll miss you, Rest in peace my friend. (sic)”

His death notice read: “It is with great sadness we announce the unexpected passing of Richard (Wally) Prendergast of D’Loughtane, Clashmore, Co. Waterford. Predeceased by his parents William and Josie, brother Declan and Joseph.

“Richard (Wally) beloved husband of Caroline, father to Marcus, William, John and Patrick, father-in-law to Jessica, Aisling, Claire and Lisa, adored grandad (ya ya) of Josie, Emily, Eve, Ruadhán, Éaladh, Alba and Haley, brother of Billy, Sheila and Bernadette.

“He will be dearly missed by his heartbroken wife, children, grandchildren, sisters, brother, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends.”

His funeral will take place on Thursday morning in St. Cronan’s Church in Clashmore. He will then be buried in the adjoining cemetery following the service.

In a statement, Gardai said they are “appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision to come forward.

“Road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the N25 between Grange and Pilltown Cross between 7:30pm and 8:00pm are asked to make this footage available to the investigating Gardaí.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Dungarvan Garda Station on 058 48600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.”

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