Tony O'Reilly, Iconic Irish Businessman and Rugby Legend, Dies at 88

O'Reilly, known for his transformative roles in rugby, business, and media, leaves a lasting legacy in Ireland and beyond.

O'Reilly pioneered the global success of Kerrygold butter and led H.J. Heinz as its first non-family chairman.
He was a record-breaking rugby player for Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, holding long-standing try records.
As a media mogul, he expanded Independent Newspapers into a global entity but faced financial ruin during the 2008 crisis.
O'Reilly's philanthropic efforts, particularly through The Ireland Funds, significantly impacted peace and reconciliation in Ireland.
He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2001 for his contributions to Northern Ireland.