The Late Willie Moran The death took place at the residence of Monica O'Doherty, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, of Mr Willie Moran, Derrada Newport. In his 91st year, he was predeceased by his wife Noreen, just 16 months ago. While farming was his forte, Willie will be best remembered in the community for his prowess in playing gaelic football. He became a member of the Newport team after it was founded in the early 1930s and served the club well for 14 years, making the number 12 shirt almost his own during that period, when he won a Mayo intermediate medal in 1934 and a Mayo Junior medal in 1945, as well as several West Mayo and Tournament medals. Meeting Willie meant an hour long stroll down the GAA memory lane scene when the thrills and spills of the '34 days would be reminisced over and over. And a visit to his home in Derrada automatically brought out the string of well polished medals he won, with a story behind each one. It was fitting then that when he was waked in his home the medals took pride of place beside his coffin. After retiring from the playing fields, Willie remained an ardent supporter of the Newport, and subsequently Burrishoole and Mayo teams. And there was no prouder man than he when his son Tommie captained St. Jarlath's College, Tuam to a Connacht Colleges victory in the late 60's and also won a Connacht medal with Mayo minors the same year. But he was even prouder to live to see two of his grandsons, Alan and Conor Moran wear the Mayo Minor and Under 21 jerseys with distinction, as well as the Burrishoole Lily White jersey, which he first donned himself for Newport back in 1932 making the Moran family third generation football circle complete. When his remains were removed from his home to St. Patrick's Church, Newport, where they were received by V. Rev Fr. E Concannon, P.P. members of Burrishoole GAA Club, and former colleagues formed a Guard of Honour for the last half mile. Concelebrated Mass was offered for the repose of his soul. The principal celebrant was Fr. Concannon and he was assisted by Canon Arthur Devine, Glenisland (a relation), Fr Kieran Bourke, C.C., Mulranny and Fr. Paul Fitzgerald, Kilmeena. The readings were by Jason Moran, grandson, and by Kate Doherty, grand daughter. Prayers of the Faithful were by Alan Moran, grandson, Donal Doherty, grandson, Tadhg Doherty, son-in-law. The Offertory Gifts were brought to the altar by Tommie Moran, son, Martina Moran and Monica O'Doherty, daughters, Liam and Clare Doherty, grandchildren. Before the final blessing, Conor Moran read a poem in tribute to his granddad Willie. During Mass selected hymns were sung by Newport Church Choir, with Mr Pat Gibbons as organist. Burial took place in the new section of Burrishoole cemetery where Willie, when a youth, often played seven-a-side football on Pattern Sports Day. On exactly the same day, April 8th, 17 years ago, Willie's colleague, Larry McGovern, was also buried in Burrishoole cemetery, as snow fell. Willie Moran is survived by his son Tommie; daughters Marina Moran and Monica O'Doherty; grandchildren, sisters Bea and Mary, son-in-law Tadgh O'Doherty, sister in law Collette Moran, cousins and numerous relatives. May he rest in peace. Courtesy of the Mayo News April 2003 Tweet

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