The club was sent into mourning during the week with the sad news of the passing of Charlie Brennan.

Charlie was the vice-President of our club and a hugely respected individual within St Patrick's. He was also one of the most loyal supporters, attending as many matches as possible. An Oram native, Charlie played his football in Monaghan for a time but later represented Cullyhanna football in its various guises, always performing with great distinction. Charlie played for both Ballinarea and Cullyhanna Kevin Barry's and indeed was both captain and a member of the selection panel when the Ballinarea outfit moved to Cullyhanna in 1948. Charlie also fielded for Thomas Williams side which emerged from the amalgamation of the Kevin Barry's and Dorsey Emmets in 1956 and went on to reach the Junior Championship final in 1957.

His vital contribution to the GAA in Cullyhanna and Lower Creggan was properly recognised a couple of years ago when he received a lifetime achievement award to the club dinnerdance. No award could have ben more merited. I had the honour of interviewing Charlie about his footballing career only a year ago and it was a privilege to hear this gentleman discuss his playing exploits. There was a real twinkle in his eye as he told of a dramatic match in Lislea many years ago. The regard Charlie held for the GAA and his local community was clear from the warmth and generosity of his every word. His loss will be keenly felt for as long as Gaelic football is played in our village. Our sincere sympathies to his wife May, his son Gerry, daughter Nuala and the entire family circle.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.

- Courtesy of Armagh Examiner 6th March 2012 Tweet

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