Foxford came to a standstill as hundreds of mourners turned out to pay their final respects to one of the town's best-known faces. Well known footballer and sports enthusiast, 23 year old Enda Gilmore, Cloongee, Foxford, son of John and Delia Gilmore, died unexpectedly last Monday prompting a huge outpouring of grief in the town.

The deceased was a leading player with Moy Davitts GAA club, which reported the news of his death on its website on Monday evening with the message: "We are very sad to report Enda's unexpected death. Our thoughts are with John, Delia, Cian, Ronan, young John and all the extended family."

Neighbour and family friend, Cllr Jimmy Maloney said the entire community was 'extremely saddened' by the loss of Enda Gilmore. "It is difficult to put into words. I knew Enda all his life, as he was my own neighbour and I can honestly say he was one of the nicest young people you could ever wish to meet. He was such a bright and intelligent person who always had a word for everyone. He will be a great loss to our neighbourhood and I know the thoughts of the entire community are with his family," he said.

In one of the biggest funerals ever witnessed in the area, his remains reposed at Clarke's Funeral home on Wednesday last with funeral Mass in St Michael's Church last Thursday where warm and moving tributes were paid to the deceased.

Scores of people, young and old. lined outside the church and turned out in huge numbers again at Straide Cemetery where he was laid to his final resting place. Enda Gilmore is survived by his parents, John and Delia, brothers Cian, Ronan and John, aunts, uncles, cousins, work colleague and a large circle of friends.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam

The Mayo News, 18th November 2008 Tweet

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