Eamonn Healy from Ballyhaunis epitomised the new era of sporting ecumenism in this country. The man who held the position of President of Ballyhaunis Rugby Club had noen major abiding sporting passion in life that transcended all others ... his love of Kilkenny hurling. Perhaps it was no surprise at all that the famous black and amber jersey adorned his coffin at the end of life's journey. It was a love affair born back in the days of Radio Eireann and Micheal O Hehir's legendary commentaries in the 1960s. Out in Holywell House, young Eamonn first heard the magic names that adorned Kilkenny hurling and those of the other big hurling counties of the era, Tipperary, Wexford and Cork. But it was the 'Cats' that he took a shine to and so began a sporting passion that grew stronger with the passing of time. He often said he was a Kilkenny fan from the age of seven and while others might have been 'adopting' Manchester United, Liverpool or whoever across the way in English soccer, Eamonn adored Kilkenny. It was a great choice of allegiance ... they gave him so many wonderful days in Croke Park, including last September when Eamonn took his sons Shane and Dara to the All-Ireland final where Kilkenny had an easy win over Waterford. It was his sixth visit to Croke Park in 2008. Eamonn was one of a family of four sons born to Jim and Mary Healy, the others being John, Patrick and Kevin. Jim died back in 1981. He married Helen Brady from Convent Road, Claremorris 20 years ago and they raised a family of three, Sinead (17), Shane (13) and Dara (8). His family were at the very heart of his daily life and he retained a sense of awe and wonder that was infectious and endeared him to so many people of all ages. Back in 1981, he was among the Ballyhaunis GAA contingent that embarked on a well-organised trip to America. He continued to retain good links with his home club over the years. He also played rugby for Ballyhaunis and was a key organiser in the club, willingly lending his expertise and goodwill to various undertakings organised by the club. Such was the regard in which he was held by members that he was installed as Club President. He was a strong supporter of the Connacht team and attended many games in Galway. He would have been a proud man to preside as president of the club at the opening of the new facility in Ballyhaunis this coming April when an interprovincial junior game will be staged by the club to mark the event. For Eamonn, community meant everything. He epitomised the 'meitheal' spirit and was associated with so many other aspects of life in the Ballyhaunis region over the years. He served as a former President of the Junior Chamber in the town and was a member of the School Council and Parents' Council of the national school. He also helped out on a regular basis in St Patrick's Church. Eamonn was employed by the Department of Agriculture for 30 years in Davitt House in Castlebar. A year ago, as part of the decentralisation plans, he moved to the OPW offices in Claremorris and loved it there. It was also much more convenient and nearer to home in Ballyhaunis. The tributes paid to him by his colleagues have been many, all lauding his gentle manner and welcoming presence which made everyone feel so at home in his company. Eamonn also had a great love for music and among his special favourities were Louise Morrissey, Isla Grant, Daniel O'Donnell and others in the country and folk vein. He attended their shows and concerts on a regular basis. Eamonn took ill and died suddenly while out walking. The shock and sadness throughout his home community and over a much wider area was palpable as people tried to come to terms with the news. Eamonn Healy was a friend to all. Since his death, members of Kilkenny GAA have written to the family conveying their sympathy and regret. One official from the County Board has invited the Healy family to join them for a training session in Nowlan Park later in the summer and also forwarded a Kilkenny jersey autographed by members of the team, as well as three sliotars. A special memento that the family will always cherish is a personal letter from Henry Shefflin from Ballyhale one of the stars of the current Kilkenny team, reckoned by many to be one of the greatest hurling teams ever. Henry is currently the holder of six All-Ireland medals. The huge attendance at the removal ceremony from Donnellan's Funeral Home and the overflow congregation at the Requiem Mass in St Patrick's Church was a reflection of the special regard in which Eamonn was held by so many people. The chief celebrant was Canon Joe Cooney, PP and he was assisted by Fr Kieran Burke, Fr Des Walsh, Fr Paddy Mullins and Fr Cribbin. A Kilkenny jersey was placed in the coffin and a hurley bearing the famous black and amber colours was among the gifts brought up in the offertory procession. Members of Ballyhaunis GAA and rugby clubs, together with work colleagues and children form the local schools, formed a large guard of honour. He is deeply regretted by his wife Helen and family, Sinead , Shane and Dara, his mother Mary, brothers Patrick, Kevin and John, relatives, neighbours and many friends. The Mayo News, January 13, 2009 Tweet

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