The late Hugh Sweeney The parish of Gaoth Dobhair was plunged into mourning and deep shock at the news of the death of Hugh Sweeney, which occurred as a result of a road accident at Glenhola, Meenacladdy. A very popular young man, he was a former student of Pobal Scoil Ghaoth Dobhair. Hugh was a member of a family well known in football circles. Hugh was a member of the Under 21 Gaoth Dobhair junior team which won the County Championship in 2006. His brother Christopher is also a prominent footballer with the Gaoth Dobhair junior team and he served as Oifigeach Oige with CLG Ghaoth Dobhair. Hugh's grandfather, Hughie Jimmy Sweeney, who was originally from Gola Island, as Life President of Gaoth Dobhair CLG Club. His untimely death stunned the local community. Many sporting events as well as social events were cancelled, as a mark of respect for the bereaved family. The annual CLG Chaoth Dobhair presentation dance which was scheduled to he held was cancelled. The deceased was also a prominent soccer player. He played for a year with Home Farm Team in Dublin. He also played with the Gweedore Celtic under age team. There was a constant stream of mourners to his home throughout the wake to express their sympathy to the bereaved parents, brothers and family. His funeral took place to Magheragallon Cemetery following 1pm concelebrated Requiem Mass in St Mary's Church, Derrybeg. This was one of the largest funerals ever seen in the parish, and it showed the esteem in which Hugh was held and an expression of sympathy for his parents and family. The church was packed to capacity for the funeral Mass, with many more mourners outside the church. The celebrant of the Mass was Fr Michael Sweeney, P.P., Gaoth Dobhair and concelebrants were Fr Sean O Gallchoir P.P., Gortahork, Fr Michael Herrity P.P., Annagry, An Dr Padraig O Baoill, Seiplineach Phobal Scoil Ghaoth Dobhair, Fr Donnchade O Baoill, C.C., Cnoc Fola and Fr Brian O Fearraigh, Seipleach Phobal Scoil Chloich Cheann Fhaola. He is survived by his parents, Eamonn and Margaret Mary Sweeney, three brothers. Christopher, Shane and Gavin, grandmother Mrs Fanny Sweeney, aunts, uncles, family circle and his many friends, to all of whom hear felt sympathy is extended in their tragic loss. Courtesy of the Donegal Democrat 25 January 2007 Tweet

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