The Late Seamus Haughey It was with shock and sadness that the people of Ballymacnab head the news of Seamus Haughey's unexpected death in the early hours of Sunday 13th March. Seamus was known not only throughout the county but also much further afield, his large personality and his unquestioned support for Armagh football gaining him away acquaintances. Seamus Haughey was a tall man, but he grew several inches in height the evening that one of his local friends and neighbours brought the Sam Maguire to his home. Seamus loved following Armagh and he was a true supporter, no just a fair weather supporter. After the many years of near missed for Armagh, Seamus Haughey finally saw his dream come true of Armagh lifting the Sam Maguire Cup aloft and like many Armagh Gaels on that fine September afternoon in 2002, Seamus Haughey shed tears of joy to witness the day. It was fitting that a photo of Seamus holding the Sam Maguire Cup, taken in his own home, sat next to Seamus' remain during his wake which was attended by hundreds of people from all across the country. Many people who came into contact with Seamus Haughey had the odd disagreement with him over the years, most of these good humoured, but Seamus himself would be the first to pronounce, his disagreement of this tribute were to proclaim that all of them were good humoured. Seamus was a true believer in his principles and epitomised the word staunch. He was staunch in his beliefs, he was staunch in his love of everything Irish, he was staunch in his commitment to his community, he was staunch in his pride and love for his family, he was stanch in his support of his beloved Gaelic football, be it his local Round Towers Ballymacnab or the Boys in Orange and White. Seamus was fondly referred to as 'Big Haughey' and he was big in heart as well as in stature. Seamus' attendance to many others over the years in their times of illness or need, has been referred to time and again since his untimely passing. In recent years Seamus had more time on his hands and was always willing to help out or lend a hand to whatever needed done for friends and neighbours, on jobs large or small, he loved to be involved. Memories of Seamus' playing days with Ballymacnab have been recalled when his huge strength and height made him the play most players hated to mark. No doubt Seamus loved the challenge of a good tussle on the pitch and many's a one he had and laughed about. His days as supporter of both local football and camogie clubs in "The Nab" also brings many memorable events and moments when Seamus' huge voice could be heard all over the pitch. Seamus Haughey was a sociable man. He loved nothing better than a drink and good laugh with friends and many's a good night was had by those fortunate enough to have been in the company of Seamus and Briege Haughey. Seamus was equally adopt at socialising with children as he was with adults. He loved children and they loved him, the gentle giant. Seamus Haughey will be much missed by his many friends and his neighbours. But he will be most sorely missed by his wife Briege and family, Paula, Joanne, Ciara, Michael and Laura and his grandchildren Emma, Conor and Molly. Deepest sympathy is extended to them and to the wider Haughey family circle. Seamus, you will be missed but you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Seamus your work has ended. Courtesy of the Armagh Observer 29th March 2005 Tweet

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