It is with deep regret that we record the death of our esteemed clubman Jim O'Hara of Leggetsrath, who passed away on May 30 at Waterford Regional Hospital following a brief illness. The chairman, committee and members of the club extend their sincere sympathies and prayers to his wife Statia, his sons Aidan, Noel, Patrick, Vincent, Liam and their families, brothers Peter and John, sisters Teresa and Nora, and all his extended family and friends. At this sad time whilst we mourn his passing, we take time to remember and acknowledge a remarkable life dedicated to God, family, work, friends and club. Jim came originally from Tullaroan, but when he married Statia and came to live in Leggetsrath, in St. John's Parish, he became engrossed in the life of his now adopted club, which was then only in his infancy. Over the years, he helped shape its destiny and made an enormous contribution at all levels to its development and success. He was chairman of the youth section for a number of years, served on the club's executive committee, was a selector to many a team and was club chairman in more recent times. Whateer the role, whatever the task, his enthusiasm, his time and energies were given wholeheartedly over and over again never counting th ecost, making excuse or seekiing recognition. Each of us in the club will cherish knowing him and will recalland share our own special memories. He will be remembered with fondness not only for his various contributions, but for his engaging personality which enabled him to light up any company and enjoy a special friendship with all. Jim was deadly serious about the games and the need for all to preform. His views before, during or after a game were never narrow, unclear or private. Whether you agreed or not wasn't the point, once you knew they were coming from the heart and with only the interests of the club in mind, it didn't matter. Well aware of what was going on, Jim enjoyed, indeed revelled in giving as good as he was getting. A man of right spirit is not an easy man to disturb, disarm or subdue. We are all the better for that kind of company. Just as he did in O'Loughlin Gaels, he carried with him that same sense of application, service and integrity to his workplace and employment as a driver with Marble City Transport on the Sion Road. His truck was cared for as if it was his own, tasks were taken in his stride and not many who spent a life time driving on our roads as he did, can boast of never having had an accident or been checked for any traffic infringement. Those close to him will be very aware of his absolute commitment to family and of his faith which helped sustain him in times of difficulty. The exceptionally large turnout at both the removal ceremony and funeral Mass was a fitting testimony to the high regard in which he was held by such a wide community. He will be sorely missed. May the Lord have mercy on his soul and give ongoing strength and comfort to Statia, Aidan, Noel, Patrick, Vincent, Liam and family members. Courtesy of the Kilkenny People 6 June 2008 Tweet

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