The late Jimmy McGrath A former All-Ireland winning handballer, master gardener and quiet family man has passed away. The late Jimmy McGrath, St Fiacre's Place, Kilkenny died suddenly at his home. The 90-year-old will be best remembered as the head gardener at Kilkenny Castle, where he was first employed by the Butler family and then by the Office of Public Works (OPW) after the castle was taken over by the state. He is credited with many innovations in the gardens and a spokesman for the OPW said that he played a vital role in maintaining the gardens during the period of transition. He was very proud of his work but spoke little of it. He was a familiar figure around the city on his bicycle and was cycling up to a few years ago. He was also a great James Stephens club man and lined out for the club in goal during the 1940s. A spokesman for the club, Mick Moore said Jimmy was a true gentleman and life-long Village supporter. Jimmy won an All-Ireland handball medal in 1941 and retained his love of the sport throughout his life. His remains were brought from Johnston's funeral home to St Patrick's Church. Burial in St Kieran's cemetery was after the funeral Mass. He is survived by his wife Peg; daughter Mary and son Tom; son-in-law Joe, daughter-in-law Christina, grandchildren Emma and Jean, other relatives and friends. Courtesy of the Kilkenny People 9 February 2007 Tweet

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