The Late Seamus Ryan Laois GAA has to come to terms with the loss of one its most loyal and popular servants - Seamus Ryan of Portarlington. The mild mannered gentleman of Port football passed away on Monday lunchtime at his residence in Droughill. Fondly known as Seamie his passing is deeply regretted by his wife Mary, sons Gerard (South Africa) and Seamus (England) and daughter Anne (England), his brothers Neddie and Tommy, sister Bridie, brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and many friends. His removal will take place on Wednesday evening at 6.50pm arriving at St Michael's Church at 7.30pm and burial after 10am Requeim Mass on Thursday in St Michaels Cemetery. Seannie was a dedicated supporter of gaelic games, and loved football. He served on the executive of Laois football Board at the time of his death and for many years previous. He was also Chairman of Laois Scor, and a member of Laois County Board as PRO and Irish Officer. He served as chairman of his club, Portarlington for two years 1996 and 1997. Seamie won two senior football medals with his club in 1954 and 1955. He played for three seasons between the posts for Laois and emigrated to England in the late fifties. He returned to Ireland in 1971 and farmed in Portarlington. A great character who was a calming influence for many, Seamie's interests were not just in football - he was also involved in Portarlington drama and chaired the local committee for a spell. He will be fondly remembered as the architect of the present senior football championship, as debates raged in Timahoe about its structure Seamie always defended the league status before quarter final knock out places with aplomb. The present structure has served Laois well and stood the test of time. On behalf of the County Board, chairman Dick Miller passed on his condolences and that of all Laois GAA to the Ryan family on the death of Seamie. Football Board chairman Tom O'Loughlin expressed his sympathy and sadness at the death of Seamie, stating he was recently present at a Football Board meeting. Seamie was an active supporter and admirer of Mick O'Dwyer, and was thrilled at his recent appointment. May he rest in peace. Courtesy of The Leinster Leader November 2002 Tweet

Most Read Stories