Joseph Conway, St John's Park, Rock Street and formerly of Brogue Lane, Tralee, was a Rockie born and bred and lived his entire life in the neighbourhood in which his roots were deeply embedded. Aged 81, he was born to parents Joseph and Mar Conway on January 18th 1930. His brother Christy and sisters Delia and Peggy completed the happy family which at the time resided in Brogue Lane where young Joe made friendships that were to last his lifetime.

He began his football career in Garrett Cotter's and Joanie Connell's fields and his steely determination to win saw him overcome many bigger opponents in contests that were as important as All-Ireland finals. He was educated in Strand Road School and he also met the love of his young life there. Joseph and Marie Roche were married in August 1952 and they settled in St John's Park, close to his original home in Brogue Lane. Together they raised their children Michael, Noel, Pat, Ann and Tara.

He started his working life in the CWS bacon factory and later moved to the road freight section in CIE (now Bus Eireann) as a driver. He later worked in the garage before retiring in 1995 after 39 years' service. His son Noel also worked as a bus driver for a period under his dad's guidance and it was often remarked that Noel's bus was the cleanest and fastest of the fleet.

Joe had an easy-going nature where friendships in which important and local pubs such as the Greyhound Bar or the Hole in the Wall were ideal venues to catch up on local banter and enjoy a game of cards. His family were of huge importance to him and his grandchildren were especially close to his outgoing and caring nature. He encouraged them to express their individual talents and took a keen interest in their well-being.

He is sadly missed by his wife Marie, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sister Peggy and many friends. Removal took place on Friday, August 5th from the Gleasure Funeral Home to St John's Church, Tralee. Burial took place on Saturday after Requiem Mass in Rath Cemetery.

- Kerry's Eye, 25th August 2011 Tweet

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