Coffey, Jimmy
January 01, 2010Limerick, Tipperary and the entire country lost a GAA legend this Wednesday morning with the death of Jimmy "Butler" Coffey in his 102nd year.
Mr Coffey passed away following a short illness in Millbrae Lodge Nursing Home, Newport. Born in Newport in 1909 he was the second youngest in a family of eight, he moved to Turragh, Cappamore in 1945 when he married his late wife Eileen.
He brought hurling glory to his home county as well as his new home.
Mr Coffey won an All-Ireland hurling medal with Tipperary in 1937 and a minor one in 1930, two Limerick county championship medals with Ahane and four or five more championship medals when he trained Cappamore.
It was fitting that another GAA legend Michael O'Muircheartaigh presented Mr Coffey with a medal and cheque at his 100th birthday celebrations in October 2009.
When asked at the party in Millbrae, who his family thanked for their great care, what was the secret to long life Jimmy replied: "Terrible hard working". and Cappamore Councillor, Noel Gleeson, can testify to this. On and off the field Mr Coffey was respected by all who knew him said Cllr Gleeson.
"He had his own Lorry and transport back in those days was very different to what it is today. He used to do deliveries and bring provisions to the shopkeepers. He'd bring pigs in to Clover Meats for the farmers.
"He was very popular with the business and farming communities. He'd take orders the night before and bring it to you. He'll be sadly missed by all who knew him," said Cllr Gleeson, who also recalled the hurling glory that Jimmy brought to his new parish.
"He was involved in all those championship wins back in the fifties. It showed how respected he was that Micheal O Muircheartaigh came down for his birthday. It was lovely for his family,"
Said Cllr Gleeson, who knew Mr Coffey well, Mr Coffey and his late wife Eileen had three sons - Eamon, patsy and Thomas, who sadly died. A very social man Mr Coffey loved to chat and meet people. He attended the launch of "As Time Goes By" a photographic record of Cappamore earlier this year and many other events.
At his 101st birthday party everyone who attended was amazed at his recall of former matches, opponents and victories. He is deeply regretted by his sons Eamon and Patsy, daughters in law, grandchildren, nephews and nieces and a large circle of friends. No funeral arrangements had been announced at the time of going to press.
Courtesy of the Limerick Leader 1/1/11 Tweet
