The GAA community in South Mayo is in mourning for Henry Cleary, who passed away on Monday night last, September 2 at University College Hospital Galway. The 81-year-old of Casa-Mia, Ballyhaunis Road, Claremorris had been in failing health for the last two years, but bore his illness with fortitude.
A native of Ballindine, Henry was involved in founding Ballindine GAA club - later Davitts - and as a life-long pioneer, organised many plays in Ballindine during the Lenten periods in the 60s.
After taking up a position in Claremorris Post Office in the '50s, he joined Claremorris GAA Club and when his playing career ended, became a selector, trainer and coach.
For 25 years, Henry was treasurer of the club and was involved in building the original clubhouse. Henry was Clubman of the Year in 1981 and received a Hall of Fame Award in 2011. An avid GAA fan, Henry was in Croke Park to see Mayo lift Sam Maguire in 1951.
As postmaster in Claremorris, Henry was involved with the motorisation of the postal service in Connacht. He is survived by his wife Rita (nee Feerick, Ballinrobe); children Sean, Martina, Henry Edward, Marguerite and Sinead; sons-in-law Conor, Paul and Edward; daughter-in-law Caroline; and 11 grandchildren. He was pre-deceased by his brother Joe and sister Ann and is regretted by his brother Edmund (Castlehaven) and sisters Maudie O'Reilly (Dublin), Evelyn Rudden (New York), nephews, nieces, relatives, friends.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.

Western People, 9th September 2013 Tweet

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