The Late Eddie Crean When the news of Eddie Crean's untimely death hit Ballinalee and its surrounds, people of first reacted with disbelief and shock and then a huge sense of sadness and loss. This was because Eddie was a gentle and kindly man who lived his life with a belief to do good for his fellow man and acted in a way that befriended him to all those who came in contact with him. Eddie was a great neighbour, always there to lend a helping hand, to oblige when the need arose and never sought recompense. He was regarded as an honest and hardworking man. He took great pride in the upkeep of his house and farm and he always had an open door to anyone who called. Of course it was Eddie's involvement in various organisations that brought him into contact with most people. Never one to seek the limelight, he was always working diligently behind the scenes and making sure that various tasks were done. He devoted many years of service to his beloved Sean Connolly's Football Club and served in various positions with the Club. His other great love was of course Fianna Fail. He was secretary of the local Ballinalee Cumann for a long number of years, a position he held right up until his passing. He was a dedicated and conscientious secretary and had a clear sense of duty to the position. He participated in many many election campaigns and was every present at Ballinalee Polling Booth on election day for many years. He was always in touch with political activities both at local and national level. This was evidenced by the large turnout of national and local politicians who participated in a guard of honour at his removal. While Eddie had deeply held political views, he always respected other people's political affiliations and was never offensive in his comments. The loss of such a stalwart will be deeply felt by Fianna Fail. We thank and salute him for his unstinting service to our party. One of Eddie's attributes was his continuance of the fast disappearing custom of 'ceilidhing'. It was the visits to his neighbours and particularly to his friend Mickey Doherty that gave opportunities to have a laugh, a joke, a bit of craic and banter. Of course there was also some very serious business discussed at these sessions and everyone was the wiser for listening to Eddie. There is a genuine feeling by the people of Ballinalee and the surrounding areas that we are all the poorer, at the passing of a decent, upright and good man. Ballinalee Cumann Fianna Fail Courtesy of the Longford Leader 1st July 2005 Tweet

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