It is with deep sadness that Down GAA learned of the death of esteemed and much loved Uachtaran Paddy MacFlynn. Paddy was a tremendous servant to the GAA from his earliest days as a founding member of O'Donovan Rossa GAC in Magherafelt to his last attendance at a meeting of Coiste Banisti in Down on April 29 this year.
Indeed, at that meeting which had been called to discuss that proposed football review within Down, Paddy informed the members that "this was a massive job and the county would have to deliver on this task". Profound words indeed for a man who always delivered on the tasks at hand.
Paddy first came to Down as an administrator back in 1949 and served on East and South Down Boards, was treasurer of the county committee from 1955 to 1973 and Central Council and Ulster Council delegate for many years.
It was indeed a very proud moment when Paddy was elected uachtaran of Cumann Luthchleas Gael in 1979. His leadership in that period ensured that the GAA continued to grow and develop as the biggest amateur sporting organisation in this country and beyond.
We in Down have been privileged to have had a leader like Paddy MacFlynn in our midst; to have worked with him and learned from him has been a wonderful education. We are the richer for having had his presence amongst us.
Seamus Walsh, chairman of Down GAA, in paying tribute stated: "Paddy was an iconic figure in the world of GAA, a man who had held the top position in our organisation yet was always happiest when meeting and greeting people of all ages at club and county matches. He was a wise counsellor to all inside and outside of meetings and he will be greatly missed by all in Down GAA. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.

Mourne Observer, 2nd October 2013 Tweet

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