The Late Sean Kelly Sean Kelly of Leggettsrath, Dublin Road, Kilkenny died on May 27 2005 aged 59. He was originally from Ballyquirke in the parish of Gowran. He was son of the late Matt and Lil Kelly and brother of the late Paddy Kelly, Bennettsbridge. He was a loving husband and an inspirational and devoted father. Sean was an avid sports enthusiast from an early age. His first passion was athletics and as a cross country runner he represented Kilkenny. He also took part in other track and field events and won medals in county championships at senior level. As a hurler he played with Young Irelands of Gowran for over ten years. This included playing in the club's first title success in the junior county final. He represented Kilkenny at under-21 and senior levels. Sean was a member of Kilkenny Golf Club for many years and enjoyed a competitive game of golf. In his professional life Sean started as a builder and at a young age started his own company which he ran for over 20 years. Realising a new calling in life he then studied and qualified as a sports therapist using an array of alternative therapies including massage, armatherapy, Ki massage therapy and kinesiology. In 1990 he opened his alternative health clinic in Patrick's Street where he treated people up to the beginning of his illness. As a sports therapist his services were used by many of the clubs in the county. In the early nineties he was team masseur for the senior Kilkenny All Ireland winning teams. Other teams he was involved with included the senior camogie team and teams at underage. In 2002 Sean was forced to retire due to ill health. However he did not allow this to get his down and channelled his energy into his garden for which he had a a great love. He had a very positive attitude and fighting spirit throughout his illness. He showed great determination and sheer strength of character. Over the last three years he battled for each extra day of his life. He is survived by his wife Ann, son Paul and daughters Imelda and Catherine, grandchild Jack and sons-in-law Tom and Paul; sisters Ethna Kavanagh, Castlecreen, Marjorie Carroll, Ballygurteen; brother Matty Kelly, Ballyquirke; brothers-in-law Owen Kavanagh, Paddy Carroll, Daniel Brennan; sisters-in-law Anne Kelly, Maura O'Halloran, Alice Hennessy, Breda McDonald, Margaret Mulrooney, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Throughout his illness he received great support from his family, friends and neighbours. Sean died at home in the loving care of his family. Courtesy of the Kilkenny People 10th June 2005 Tweet

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