Published Tuesday, 12 July 2011
Michael Brown, who had served as a Sinn Féin councillor since 1985, died on Saturday after losing his battle with cancer.
Mr Browne met the Queen on the final day of her state visit to Ireland in May, despite reportedly previously signing a statement against the royal visit to the Rock of Cashel.
At the time, South Tipperary Sinn Féin's spokesperson Muiris Ó Suilleabháin said local party members "were surprised by Michael Browne's action".
"Sinn Féin's position on the visit of the English queen to Ireland is that it is premature and we are opposed to it and that its elected members should not attend any of the events related to it," he added.
Party President Gerry Adams paid tribute to Mr Browne, who served three terms as Mayor of the Co Tipperary town.
"An Irish republican and member of Sinn Féin for many decades, Michael believed passionately in an independent and united Ireland -- a goal for which he worked with dedication," said Mr Adams.
"Michael had battled a serious illness for several months with great dignity.
"His death is a loss for his family, for the people of Cashel and for Sinn Féin."