Tributes have flooded in for the former GAA President, Paddy McFlynn who sadly passed away on Tuesday night. The 95 year old died peacefully at his County Down home after a short illness. Originally from Magherafelt, Paddy served as a senior member on the Derry and Down Board before becoming President of the GAA in 1979 until 1982.
His death came just one week after his autobiography 'Leading through the Troubles, a life in the GAA' was launched.
In his book, Paddy revealed how the GAA had been in danger of being torn apart during the time of the hunger strike. Hundreds attended his final farewell in St Patrick's and St Colman's Church in Laurencetown on Friday. Among the mourners were Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and current GAA president Liam O'Neill.
At the age of 16 years-old McFlynn became a founder member of his club O'Donovon Rossa, he went on to become Derry secretary at the age of 23.
Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness expressed his sympathy to Paddy's family and friends. He said: "I was sorry to learn of the passing of Paddy McFlynn and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time. "Paddy demonstrated true leadership qualities from an early age. In May I was fortunate to meet up again with Paddy at an event organised by the Ulster Council and Derry County Board. The display of the minutes of the meeting at which Paddy was appointed County Secretary 73 years ago generated an immediate round of applause from the audience and Paddy generously shared with us some of his early memories.
"Whether working at club or national level Paddy through his dedication and lifelong service enriched the lives of many people," added the Deputy First Minister.
Local SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone said that he is deeply saddened by the death of Paddy McFlynn.
Mr McGlone said: "I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Paddy McFlynn, who served with distinction as President of the GAA between 1979 and 1982.
"He held the office at an extremely difficult time and managed to promote the sport in a way which we should all be very grateful for.
"As a founding member of the O'Donovan Rossa GAA in Magherafelt, he was very well regarded in this area. In total Paddy gave 80 years of volunteer service to the association which demonstrated his true passion for the game. My own father knew and admired him a great deal.
"The outstanding leadership Paddy showed during his time as President and in the years that followed leaves a lasting legacy to the game. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this sad time, ar lamhdheis De go raibh sé, " added Mr McGlone.

Derry Post, 1st October 2013 Tweet

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