Clifford, Paddy
January 26, 2012
It is with deep regret that The Avondhu learned of the passing of Paddy Clifford, Gurteenatarriffe, Mitchelstown in the loving care of the the matron and staff of St Patrick's Community Hospital in Fermoy.
His death took place on Sunday, January 15 after a short illness bravely borne. Paddy was born into the farming community on the historic day '4th July'.
He obtained his early years of education both primary and secondary, at the CBS Mitchelstown during which time he attended Colaiste na Gaeilge in Garryvoe. He became a fluent Irish speaker and wore his Fáinne with pride.
Paddy was an active player of the GAA that was installed in him by his grandfather Markie Barrett who was a founder member of the Blackthorn GAA Club, Mitchelstown and a regular visitor to Croke Park in the 1950s.
As a young farmer he became involved with Macra na Feirme, winning several trophies at stock judging. He was always ready for social occasions with an appropriate song. In fact, on such occasion in Shannon Airport in 1964, when his neighbour Mike Walsh was emigrating to Philadelphia, Paddy gave a heartfelt rendition of 'The little old mud cabin on the Hill' which drew tears from the eyes of all present. It could be said to have been the last of the 'American wakes', even though in today's environment things have not changed very much.
'Go sell the pig and cow and all,
And we'll take you far away,
For your dear old parents you must leave
behind,
Go and seek your fortune far away,
In a land across the sea,
For in Paddy's land it's poverty you will find'.
He was pre deceased by his wife Kathleen (nee Dunne) of Shraharla six years ago, who taught of Lisvernane National School in the Glen of Aherlow for many years. Paddy continued on as mentor to the African Missions (SMA) with Mrs Peggy Brennan. During their years of married bliss, the Lord blessed them with three children, Miriam Considine (Ardpatrick). Michael and Reamonn whom they moulded into respected citizens. Miriam married Pat Considine, while Michael's wife Mary O' is an esteemed member of the staff at Credit Union House in Mitchelstown Jennifer and Reamonn work and live in New York.
Paddy Clifford' s removal took place from O'Brien Funeral Home to Mitchelstown parish church on Tuesday evening of last week. Concelebrated Mass was offered for the repose of his soul, with the principal celebrant being his brother in law Fr Sean Dunne, ably assisted by Canon John Terry, his cousin Fr Ned Barrett, Fr Tom Ryan, Fr Bill Radley, Fr Michael Fitzgerald PP, Fr James Greene, Canon Tim O'Leary and six (SMA) Fathers.
In his homily Fr Dunne mentioned Paddy's sweet tooth and his lifelong love of biscuits. Paddy took a deep interest in his local Fine Gael party of which he was treasurer for many years, and rejoiced greatly when his lifelong friend PJ Walsh became a member of Cork County Council in 1999. Paddy liked to travel and often recalled as a child travelling by railway from Mitchelstown to Ballindangan with Mrs Fitzgerald. Later he liked to take an impromptu drive to his car whenever he took a fancy.
As a member of his historical group at T.O Park he visited many sites such as Newgrange, Tubbercurry Abbey and Ross Castle.
On the conclusion of the funeral obsequies, interment took place in Brigown Cemetery and Paddy was once again united with his wife Kathleen. In a final gesture his coffin was sprinkled with earth from his beloved Gurteen, under the watchful eye of JJ O'Brien and Sons, grandson and the ever-vigilant Mrs Mary O'Brien. The large attendance both at the requiem Mass, removal and interment bore testimony to Paddy Clifford's popularity.
We extend our sincere sympathy to his family, other relatives and friends. May his soul rest in peace.
Courtesy of the Avondhu
26th January 2012
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