Family and friends remember William “Elvis” Maher as a proud Portlaw man whose warmth, humour and unmistakable character left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Late of William Street and formerly of Brown Street, Willie was part of the life and memory of Portlaw, through family, friendship, Irish Tanners, the pipe band and the many stories shared across the years. Deeply devoted to his beloved wife Noleen, and proud of Vivienne, John, Anthony, Keith, Damien and Pat, Willie’s family was at the heart of his life. His seventeen grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren were part of the great legacy of love he leaves behind. He was remembered as “a true gent”, “a lovely character”, and someone who always had “a joke and a smile”, words that capture the warmth, humour and easy company people will miss so much.

Many of the tributes shared for Willie spoke of old Portlaw, of Brown Street, William Street, pipe band trips, competitions, music, neighbours and friendships that lasted a lifetime. Friends remembered “great times in the pipe band”, “great memories of Brown Street”, and the days when Willie and his pals brought music, laughter and life into the homes and streets around them. One message captured the feeling beautifully, saying that “another little bit of old Portlaw has gone”, taking with it stories, history and memories of a time when friends were friends and neighbours were neighbours. Willie will be deeply missed by Noleen, his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, neighbours and many friends, but his smile, his humour, his music and the stories attached to his name will live on for generations.

Late of William Street, Portlaw, Co. Waterford. Formerly of Brown Street, Portlaw , Co Waterford. Formerly of Irish Tanners. William passed peacefully with his loving family by his side on Friday the 29th of May 2026. RIP.