Herbert Martin O'Reilly

Herbert Martin O’Reilly, 80, of Hardinsburg, Kentucky, passed away at his home on March 4, 2026.

He was born on June 24, 1945, in Hardinsburg, Kentucky, to Jasper and Anastasia O’Reilly, both of whom preceded him in death. Herbert spent his life rooted in the community where he was born and raised, carrying with him the values of family, perseverance, and loyalty that defined his life.

He began practicing law as an attorney in 1973, and continued his career for 52 years, proudly serving as County Attorney in the 70's and as Breckinridge County Master Commissioner for over 20 years. Throughout those decades, he was devoted to providing guidance to his clients and truly enjoyed the work he did. His commitment to his profession and to those he served was a defining part of his life.

Above all, he was a family man who loved his wife, 8 children, and 11 grandchildren more than anything. He was a proud father, grandfather, farmer, and attorney who was known for his dedication, remaining active in his profession until his passing. He loved to tell stories and never missed a detail, captivating those around him with his memory and wit. He found great joy in nature and bird watching, often walking for hours on his farm with his family, always ending the day with a picnic and a campfire. Those simple moments together were among his greatest treasures.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jo Ann O’Reilly, and his siblings: Lucille Mattingly, Mary Lillian Roberts, Pauline O’Reilly, Tom O’Reilly, Joe O’Reilly, Earl O’Reilly, and Charlie O’Reilly.

He is survived by his eight children: Theresa Wajda (Steve) of Tampa, Florida; Ella O’Reilly of Louisville, Kentucky; Christine Roncaglione (David) of Cincinnati, Ohio; Gregory O’Reilly (Paige) of Henderson, Tennessee; Elizabeth Schweitzer (Jason) of Louisville, Kentucky; Michael O’Reilly (Jennifer) of Hardinsburg, Kentucky; Jennifer Schumann of Des Moines, Iowa; and Ashley Griffin (Tom) of Des Moines, Iowa; and by his brother, Paul O’Reilly.

He was a proud grandfather to Gracie Roncaglione (Christine); Matthew, Easton, and Beckett O’Reilly (Gregory); Lydia Schweitzer (Elizabeth); Ella and Kenny O’Reilly (Michael); Henry and Gavin Schumann (Jennifer); and Avery and Shelby Griffin (Ashley). His grandchildren were a meaningful part of his life and carry forward his legacy.

Visitation will be held at the Alexander Funeral home in Irvington, KY on Sunday, March 8, 2026 from 1-7:00 P.M. CDT (2-8:00 EDT) with a prayer service at 6:00 P.M. CDT. (7:00 P.M. EDT)  

Funeral Mass will be held at the St. Romuald Catholic Church in Hardinsburg on Monday, March 9, 2026 starting at 10:30 CDT, 11:30 EDT with Father Tony Jones presiding.  Burial will follow next to his wife, in St. Romuald Cemetery.

Online condolences may be left at www.irvingtonfh.com