The Kerry football club in Boston has been left in a state of deep shock by the sudden, untimely passing of club stalwart Oliver Briody. Oliver, who was only 67, joined the Kerry club in 1964 and went on to hold many key positions during his time, including chairman, manager, selector, delegate and player. Indeed, over the years, he became the heart and soul of the club. Oliver was the type of man who could always be counted upon to carry out selfless work behind the scenes or tie up loose ends. His immense contribution to the Kerry club in Boston is immeasurable. He also served in many capacities on the Boston North East Board over the years. A man who did not know the meaning of the word 'No' when it came to GAA affairs, Oliver will be sadly missed by all those who knew and loved him. He truly was one of a kind. Right up to the week before his untimely death, Oliver was giving freely of his time bringing players to and from matches. Earlier this year, he returned to Ireland to join in his brother's 80th birthday celebrations. Originally from Ballinlough, Kells, County Meath, Ireland, Oliver was beloved son of the late John and Mary Briody of County Meath, brother of Liam and Jack of Ireland, Joe of Canada, and the late Sheila Collins and Mary McNulty. He is also survived by many nephews and nieces. A memorial service and funeral mass were held in Boston on Friday July 22 and Oliver made his final journey home to be buried in Moylough Cemetery. Members of the Kerry football club provided a Guard of Honour at the removal and the mass was celebrated by Fr Dan Finn from Kanturk in Cork, who played against Oliver on numerous occasions. Fr Dan delivered a fine ten-minute eulogy to Oliver, during which he outlined the many attributes of a man he remembers as a great competitor and honest individual. As far as the Gaels of Boston are concerned, you couldn't say enough about Oliver Briody. He was of a rare breed and people like him are becoming scarcer all the time, especially within the GAA scene in America. He is a tragic loss to his family, wide circle of friends, and to the Association. Away from gaelic games, Oliver established himself as a highly successful building contractor. As an employer, he was fair and honest and very easy to get along with. He was always prepared to offer work to football immigrants and was liked and respected by everyone who came in contact with him. A shy man in spite of all his achievements, Oliver carried a playful smile on his face throughout life. He never sought publicity or pushed himself into the limelight. That was the kind of Oliver Briody - selfless and kind to the end. As they said 'Goodbye' to one of their favourites, the Gaels in Boston gave him a great send-off and no doubt Oliver was smiling down from his seat in Heaven. Tweet

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