Meath Obituaries 2008
Bill Halpenny (Drumconrath)
Bill, who was 90 years of age, starred from the full forward spot as neighbours
Cavan were beaten in the All-Ireland decider of 1949. This was Meath’s
first All-Ireland success and Halpenny slotted home the vital goal as the Breffni
men, who were going for a three-in-a-row, were overcome on a 1-10 to 1-6 scoreline.
Bill Halpenny was one of the remaining links with the Meath 1939 squad, who
were decidedly unlucky in going under to Kerry in the All-Ireland showdown.
A young Halpenny was a substitute on that occasion.
Thereafter, he became a regular in the green and gold and lined out with Leinster
on numerous occasions. Bill Halpenny possessed a fine pair of hands and his
high-fielding in the traditional mould brought gasps of approval from crowds
at Croke Park and other venues around the country.
He was originally a midfielder, later played at centre-half-forward and was
the big man on the edge of the square when the Royal County made that major
breakthrough. He formed an exciting full-forward partnership with clubmate Paddy
Meegan in the number 13 jersey and the ‘Man in the Cap’ Peter McDermott
at top of the left.
The farmer from Batestown also won a county intermediate medal in 1941. Other
medals gained in the green and gold of Meath included the National Football
League in 1946 and provincial awards in 1939, ‘40 and ‘47.
On the domestic club scene, Bill Halpenny was a vital part of the great Syddan
team of the 1940s and 50s and the football-mad stronghold of north Meath tasted
senior championship success in 1949, 51, 52 and 1956. Kevin McConnell, left
full back on the All-Ireland winning team of ‘49, was another member of
the Syddan club.
Ni bheidh a leitheid ann aris.
Daniel Prendergast
(Kilmallock and Athboy)
Dan, who was in his mid 80s when he passed away, served as a Garda in Athboy
for 30 years. He became immersed in the local GAA and was a huge force on the
line as Athboy dominated Meath club hurling in the 1960s. Dan’s son Padraig
was an inspirational midfielder on the fine Athboy footballing team of the late
70s, early 80s. The Athboy-Martinstown combination captured the Meath intermediate
title in 1979 and subsequently competed at senior level.
Maureen Prendergast
(Galway and Athboy)
A native of Moycullen, Maureen died less than a month after her husband Dan.
Jean Staunton
(Claremorris, Batterstown and Navan)
Jean’s late husband Tom was appointed principal of Rathregan N.S. Batterstown
during the early 1950s and he was the driving force as the Kilcloon-Batterstown
combination became a dominant force in Meath juvenile football. Tom was a noted
Mayo footballer and was a selector as the Westerners annexed their first All-Ireland
title in 1936. Jean herself was a noted piano and music teacher. The family
moved to Navan in the early 1970s and Tom and Jean’s son Tom (also a teacher)
became highly involved in Navan O’Mahonys and amongst a number of other
roles served the Brews Hill club as chairman.
Brendan Clusker (Navan)
Brendan was a member of one of Navan’s best known families and was a former
Labour Party, Meath County Council and Urban Council member. The estate Clusker
Park on the Kells Road is called after Brendan’s father Patrick. Brendan
had a great interest in Meath GAA and the family shop just across from Pairc
Tailteann was a popular meeting place for gaels before and after matches. In
his younger days Brendan won an Under 14 medal with Navan De La Salle in 1939.
He also lined out on the O’Mahonys junior winning championship combination
of 1949 and later wore the Bohermeen jersey. Up until recent times the Clusker
trophy was handed over to the Man of the Match after every Meath senior football
championship decider.
May Lynch (Dunsany)
A very popular member of the local community along with her husband and well-known
trainer Andy, May was very active in local horse racing circles. She was also
involved in Dunsany ladies GFC and held a number of positions on the club committee.
May followed the fortunes of Kilmessan hurlers and her son Michael was part
of the Blues panel which went under to neighbours Kiltale in the 2007 senior
decider. Later on in the year Kilmessan gained the Under 21 title on the Sunday
prior to her passing. In a poignant gesture captain Vinny Reilly presented the
Thomas Carrigy Cup to Michael who, with a number of his team mates, brought
it to May in Blanchardstown Hospital.
Patrick ‘Paddy’ Quinn (Dunboyne)
Paddy was a retired construction worker and a staunch GAA man. He followed the
fortunes of the Meath footballers all his life. In his younger days he wore
the Kilbride and Batterstown jerseys. Paddy also played with the old Flathouse
combination and acted as chairman of the now defunct club.
John ‘Jack’ Foran (Navan)
Jack served as foreman of Navan Racecourse for over 45 years. A huge GAA follower
and especially when it came to both Simonstown and the Meath team. Jack was
the father of well-known referee Niall and his grandson Rory is a promising
young footballer with Simonstown.
Eugene Clarke (Kilmainhamwood)
Eugene was a member of the Clarke family who have given great service to the
‘Wood club for decades.
Nancy Halpin (Oldcastle)
A native of Kilnacrott, Nancy was a tireless worker behind the scenes for Oldcastle
GAA. Her husband Leo has served the north Meath club in practically every position,
including that of chairman and is one of the driving forces behind the very
successful Gerry O’Reilly tournament. Their son Brendan has worn the Meath
jersey at all levels.
Keith Louth (Slane and Navan)
Keith, who died on Christmas Day in London was only 31 years of age. Originally
from Slane and a useful soccer player, his younger brother Dermot is a very
promising player with Navan O’Mahonys and has worn the Meath jersey at
underage level.
Helen Coffey (Tankardstown)
Nee Rogers - Helen was a member of a great Boyerstown GAA family. She was a
big Meath and GAA supporter.
Denise O’Brien (Dunderry)
Denise was the daughter of Derry O’Brien, a well-known personality in soccer
circles. Derry played with Simonstown and his family have provided great service
to the Navan club.
Monica Power (Kells)
A member of the Smith family from Clover Hill, Kells, Monica is survived by
her husband Paddy, the uncle of Galway, double All Star, Sean Og de Paor. Quite
a number of Monica’s nephews and grand-nephews, including the Smiths and
Reddys, have provided great service to the local Gaeil Colmcille club. Her brother
Larry lined out with Drumbaragh during the 1940s and 50s.
Frances Nugent
(Dunboyne and Navan)
Frances was the daughter of Sean Boylan, a man heavily involved in Ireland’s
fight for independence. A twin, she was the sister of former Meath manager Sean
Boylan.
Fr. Luke Lynch
(Moynalty and Dalgan)
Fr. Luke of the Society of Columban died at the age of 89. Completely dedicated
to the Church, he served in many countries including China (just as the communists
were coming to power after the Second World War), the Philippines and England.
Fr. Luke had a great ability to write and penned some terrific memoirs during
his retirement years in Dalgan Park. He remembered Meath bringing the National
Football League cup into Moynalty village in 1933, the county’s first trophy
of major significance. He and his young friends climbed to the top of the trees
to get a better view of the victorious parade. Neighbours from a few miles north
in Breffni often took this route too when going home from big games. Needless
to say, the Blues obtained a different type of reception! A man of tremendous
intelligence, the hallowed halls of Dalgan are much poorer in his absence.
Jackie Carroll (Navan)
Jackie was described by local politician and publican Paddy Fitzsimons as a
‘father figure’ to the Navan O’Mahonys teams. He was associated
throughout his life with the Brews Hill club and served as secretary during
the era of its five in-a-row county championship winning team of 1957 to 1961.
The Athlumney native was an Honorary President of the club. Indeed, Jackie served
O’Mahonys in practically every official position. His late brother Jim
was an outstanding goalkeeper with the club.
Joseph ‘Joe’ Farnan
(Ardbraccan and England)
A builder by trade, Joe emigrated to England in the early 60s. A noted singer
and fly-fisher, he became Fly Master of Great Britain in 1992. Prior to travelling
across the water, Joe lined out with his native Martry.
Patrick ‘Paddy’ & Elizabeth Farrelly
(Crossakiel)
Paddy hailed from near Carnaross and commenced farming in Crossakiel 50 years
ago. He was in his late 80s, had a great memory and loved to tell a yarn or
good story. Paddy’s sons played underage with Ballinlough. Sadly, Paddy’s
wife Elizabeth ‘Lily’ (nee Muldoon) passed away later on in the year.
Mary (Maureen) Caffrey (Lloyd)
Nee Raleigh - From the Hill of Down, Maureen married into a family deeply immersed
in the Drumbaragh club. Her late husband Patsy served the Kells parish unit
in a number of positions and Maureen was not alone President of Drumbaragh,
but just before her death she was confirmed with the club’s Hall of Fame
award for a lifetime of commitment. Her family are actively involved in both
the Drumbaragh and Simonstown clubs.
Elizabeth ‘Lily’ O'Neill (Navan)
Originally a member of the Husband family from Johnstown, Lily won many camogie
medals in her younger days while playing with Johnstown. She remained a great
GAA supporter.
Joe Marry (Moynalty and Wicklow)
From a well-known north Meath family, Joe, on moving to Wicklow, became highly
involved with the Kilmacanogue club and served as secretary for many years.
He was also an enthusiastic member of the Conradh na Gaeilge branch there. Members
of the club provided a guard of honour to Kilmacanogue cemetery where internment
followed.
Eugene Jordan (Nobber and Kells)
Eugene was a very useful footballer in his younger days and continued to attend
football matches even though in poor health. His son Kevin is the present Kilmainham
number one. Kevin also won an All-Ireland minor medal with Meath, was goalkeeper
on a youthful Gaeil Colmcille that gained Meath senior championship honours
in 1991 and was with the Royal County senior squad for a number of years.
John ‘Jack’ Connor
(Dunshaughlin and Skryne)
The sad passing of Jack Connor in early February severed another link with the
great Skryne and Navan O’Mahonys clashes of the last fifties.
The versatile Skryne footballer cum hurler from Scalestown was born into an
area with a strong tradition of Gaelic games. The area, dubbed ‘The Golden
Mile’ by the late Colum Cromwell in his book ‘Golden Wonders’,
supplied the Skryne club with many of its greatest players over the years.
Jack grew up in a household that gave Skryne its first All-Ireland medal winner,
Kevin Johnson. Kevin was a member of the Meath team beaten by Kerry in the All-Ireland
SFC final of 1939 and was one of the stars in the All-Ireland JFC win of 1947.
After little success at underage level, Jack graduated to the Skryne senior
team in 1954 and was a member of the side that collected the Meath SFC title
for a seventh time.
In those years he was recognised as one of the Tara club’s best forwards
featuring in attack in the finals of 1956 and ‘57. When switched to the
half back line the following year, his career really blossomed. He played a
leading role in Skryne’s narrow defeats to Navan O’Mahonys in the
finals of 1958 and ‘59.
It was his quiet disposition and dislike of the limelight that prevented Jack
from making a name for himself on the intercounty scene.
Following a number of defeats in the early sixties, Jack won a second SFC medal
in ‘65 and added a Feis Cup memento that same year. Coming to the end of
a great career, he had reverted back to the forward line for those two victories.
Jack was equally adept at the small ball game, helping nearby Kilmessan win
the intermediate title in 1960. His skill with the ‘caman’ brought
him three SHC medals in 1961, 62 and 65. He helped Kilmessan sweep the board
when they achieved the ‘double’ in 1961 and ‘62 by adding the
O’Growney Cup.
Jack’s brothers, Pat and Jim, were outstanding footballers, both having
collected SFC medals in 1954 and ‘65 respectively and both also represented
the county in the NFL.
Jack, for a large part of his life, worked on Fairyhouse Racecourse and, in
latter years, lived in Dunshaughlin where he was a well respected member of
the community.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Skryne GFC
Patrick Tobin (Skryne)
The death of Pat Tobin created an air of sadness around the parish of Skryne.
The 86-year-old had a distinguished football career with the club team in the
1940s, winning three senior football championship medals.
He played minor and junior football for the club in 1940 before graduating to
the senior team in the same year to help Skryne retain the Feis Cup.
The following year was his first playing senior championship football and it
ended in glory with Skryne defeating Kells in the final.
After a couple of blank years, Skryne completed the ‘double’ in 1944
with a big win over Kells Stars in the Feis Cup final. The SFC title was added
after three memorable games against Navan Parnells with Pat Tobin putting in
an outstanding performance at right-corner-back.
The unassuming man from the Hill of Skryne won his third Championship trophy
in 1945 when Skryne retained the title by beating Oldcastle in the final.
In 1995, Pat, along with the surviving members of the 1944-45 teams, was honoured
by the club with the ‘Hall of Fame’ award.
He retired from the game at an early age due to a serious injury but has handed
down his love of the game to his grandsons, Nigel, Ian and Bryan, who are highly
regarded in Skryne underage football. The famed blue and white jersey adorned
his coffin on the day of his funeral.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam
Skryne GFC
Kathleen Duffy
(Kilmainham and Navan)
Kathleen was a member of the well-known Morgan family from Kilmainham. Her grandsons
Lee and Ross Duffy are key players with Navan O’Mahonys.
Monica Shanley (Duleek)
Monica was a native of Donaghmoyne in south county Monaghan and lived to the
grand old age of 92. She married Garda Sergeant Tom Shanley and raised a large
family. Many of her sons pulled on the Duleek jersey and Ollie was left full
forward on the Meath All-Ireland winning team of 1967. Ollie later figured in
the 1970 final against Kerry at right half back and as manager brought Meath
to the All-Ireland minor decider in 1977.
Patrick Lawlor
(Kentstown and Oberstown Tara)
A native of Kentstown, Pat originally played with Seneschalstown, but on moving
to Skryne parish pulled on the blue of his adopted club.
Phelim Brady (Killyon)
Phelim lived to the grand old age of 98 years and was described as the grandfather
of hurling in Killyon. A brilliant hurler in his younger days, he won medals
with both club and county. Phelim served the Killyon club in a number of capacities
including those of chairman, vice-chairman, selector and was president of the
club at the time of his passing. He was the last surviving member of the Killyon
team which claimed Meath junior hurling championship honours in 1938, a feat
repeated in 1944. Phelim was a recipient of Meath GAA’s Sean Gael award.
John Lang (Kells)
A native of Balrath, just a few miles out the Westmeath side of the north county
town, John played football in his younger years with Kells Harps and remained
an avid GAA follower.
Anthony ‘Bobby’ Walls (Ratoath)
Bobby, who grew up working with horses most of his life, was a very active sportsman
in his younger days and later on was a successful soccer manager. He won a minor
hurling championship medal with Ratoath in 1969.
Pauline Leonard (Ross and Navan)
Nee Savage - Pauline was a member of a family who have close associations with
Skryne GFC.
Patrick ‘Pa’ McKenna
(Trim and Manchester)
Pa emigrated to Manchester during the 1950s and became an avid Manchester City
supporter. He had played football and hurling with the Trim club in his younger
days and made sure to return home when Meath were playing an important championship
match. Pa was in Croke Park on those big days in 1987, ‘88, ‘96 and
‘99
Mark Murray (Crossdrum, Oldcastle)
Mark was always a huge GAA supporter and especially when the local St. Brigids
were concerned. When in good health he rarely missed a Brigids game.
Michael Sweeney (Ashbourne)
A native of Ashbourne, Michael played with local club Donaghmore during the
1940s. He remained a loyal GAA and Meath supporter.
Mary Brady (Bohermeen)
Mary was a member of one of the best known and most popular families in Bohermeen
parish. Her late father Peter and brothers Liam, Brian and Richard have provided
tremendous service to the GAA in Bohermeen.
Noel Moran (Trim)
Noel was a gifted hurler in his younger days and over a period of 12 years won
seven senior championships with Trim. Members of the club provided a guard of
honour at his funeral.
Bernard ‘Sonny’ McGuinness (Ardcath)
A keen sportsman in his younger days, Bernard was a great supporter of the GAA
and the Meath county team.
Michael Cregan (Navan)
Michael hailed from a popular Navan family and was a regular at local greyhound
tracks. He was a familiar sight on the Dublin Road out of Navan walking his
beloved greyhounds. Michael was a big Navan O’Mahonys and Meath GAA supporter.
Charlie Flattery (Enfield)
Charlie, who died at a young age after a tragic mishap, was heavily involved
in Na Fianna. He was a founder member of the club and acted as a committee member
and sponsor. The tragic news followed hot on the heels of the death of Jim Queeney,
another highly popular figure in the local GAA ranks. Charlie had built up a
thriving bar and restaurant business and was also involved in a number of community
efforts.
Pauline Riley (Trim and England)
Nee O’Dare - From Newhaggard Road, Trim, Pauline emigrated to England in
the mid 1950s. A very popular lady, she remained a great follower of both Trim
and Meath GAA teams.
Sean O’Neill (Kilmessan)
Sean was a talented hurler and gained senior championship and O’Growney
Cup medals with Kilmessan. In 1990 he was the recipient of the Kilmessan Hurling
Hall of Fame award. Sean was involved in the construction industry and during
his time in England continued his hurling career in Swindon, playing for the
Naomh Seamrog club. He gained Glouchestershire hurling championship medals in
1960, ‘61, ‘63, ‘66 and ‘67. He also represented Glouchestershire
at intercounty level many times. A fitting tribute was paid to Sean when Kilmessan
hurling club formed a guard of honour at his removal. The Kilmessan and Swindon
jerseys adorned his coffin.
Catherine ‘Kay’ Geraghty
(Kilcock and Navan)
A native of the Liberties area of Dublin, Kay, along with her husband and Kilcock
native Pat, ran the popular Royal Meath pub on Watergate Street for nearly 30
years. She was the mother-in-law of former O’Mahonys star Ruairi O Coileain.
Ruairi and Kay’s daughter Michelle have two children. Katie was on the
successful Meath camogie squad of 2008, while Ruairi starred with the Meath
Under 14s during the year as well as excelling with Dunsany, Kilmessan and St.
Pats school.
Hughie McCarthy (Dunshaughlin)
Originally from nearby Ratoath, Hughie and his wife Josephine moved to Dunshaughlin
in 1947 and became heavily involved in community service and sport in the area.
A member of the crew of Dunshaughlin’s first fire service, Hughie McCarthy
soon became wrapped up in the affairs of the local GAA club. He was a committee
member and was described as a ‘committee man supreme’ in the 1950s
and ‘60s when the club was developing its grounds on the Drumree Road and
organising the renowned Dunshaughlin Carnival. Hughie served as a selector when
the club won championships in both hurling and football. He was a past recipient
of the clubs Hall of Fame award and the citation on that occasion read: “During
his membership of the club he travelled to many dance halls organising fundraising
events during the carnival years. He was the first to arrive on the scene and
the last to depart. It was during those years that the club ran seven-a-sides.
He was there to do gateman, and when the official gateman arrived he umpired
the game. He was also available to act as umpire for the local referee at club
and inter county level.
After every game he collected the jerseys, took them home. Josie washed them
and sent them back aired and spotless, which in those days was no mean feat
as washing machines and dryers were not yet invented.”
The citation also recalled that Mr. McCarthy was a delegate to the County Board,
and on one occasion, along with two other delegates from the club, missed his
lift home and had to walk the 11 miles back!
Nessan McMahon (Wilkinstown)
The Wolfe Tones catchment and surrounding area was thrown into a deep sense
of shock with the death of 14-year-old Nessan. He had just completed his second
year at Kells Community School. Nessan came from a great GAA family and had
played underage football with the Tones up to Under 16. His father Liam was
a talented forward who had played for both local clubs and was part of a fine
Meath minor team in 1975. Nessan’s school friends and team mates from Wolfe
Tones formed a guard of honour at his funeral.
Paddy Potter (Duleek and Navan)
Paddy, a native of Duleek was head of one of the most popular families in Navan.
With his native Duleek he gained senior championship and Feis Cup medals back
in 1943. He remained an avid Meath supporter and was very proud of the achievements
of his son-in-law Colm O’Rourke. A number of Paddy’s grandsons play
at various levels with Simonstown.
Sr. Josephine Berry (Westmeath and Athboy)
A gifted worker in the educational sector, Josephine spent 13 years as principal
of the Convent of Mercy, Athboy. She was a great GAA supporter and travelled
regularly to support her native county in big games.
Colm Lynch (Kilmainham and Oristown)
Colm played with his local Kilmainham in his younger days. He was also heavily
involved with Navan Rugby club. However, he remained a loyal follower of all
clubs in his area and of course the Meath team. His late father Hughie Lynch
from Oldcastle was a Royal County star during the late 1930s and early 1940s.
Hughie played in the 1939 All-Ireland decider against Kerry.
Kathleen Corcoran (Ballinlough)
Kathleen came from a family closely associated with the Ballinlough club. Her
late husband Jack served the club in every capacity, first as a player and then
as a very capable administrator.
Ciaran Murphy (Drumree)
Ciaran, who lived to the grand old age of 93, was one of the last surviving
member of Meath senior county football teams from the 1930s.
He was a son of Peadar J and Margaret Murray of Murray’s Pub in Dunshaughlin.
His father was a well-known nationalist figure, and established Conradh na Gaeilge
in the area, and was a founder of the first hurling club in Dunshaughlin, as
well as a local photographer and writer, and his mother was a member of the
county council for a period.
At the age of seven, young Ciaran Murray spent a period learning Irish in the
Ring Gaeltacht. He later attended St. Endas in Rathfarnham, where his teachers
included the mother and sister of Padraig Pearse. With Colaiste Chaoimhin, he
won an All-Ireland Colleges hurling medal.
Ciaran’s first posting as a teacher was a brief spell in Dillonsbridge
NS at Garlow Cross, Navan (the predecessor of Lismullen NS), followed by a period
in Mullagh, Co. Cavan, and for most of the 1940s, in Glasnevin in Dublin before
being appointed principal in Culmullen in 1949-50.
In the 1930s, he transferred from Erins Own in Dublin to Dunshaughlin, and was
an invaluable acquisition to the Black and Ambers. He had previously helped
out the club with an objection to the County Board following a controversial
junior county championship semi-final, in which the referee overlooked a Dunshaughlin
goal against Longwood. The Dunshaughlin club took advantage of the fact that
Longwood had an error on its registered list of players, and Ciaran was well
able to argue against the Longwood case as it involved the translation into
Irish of a certain player’s name. Dunshaughlin were reinstated.
In 1936, when five Navan O’Mahonys’ players didn’t show for a
Meath league game against Louth in Drogheda, they were suspended, and the players
that took their places included Ciaran Murray, Paddy Beggan and Kevin Johnston.
Ciaran was to make numerous appearances in the league campaign of the following
few years, culminating in the 1937 final in which Mayo, the reigning All-Ireland
champions and winners of the National League six years in a row, inflicted a
heavy defeat on the Royal County. Meath Chronicle reports of the time described
Ciaran Murray as a ‘magnificent centre half back, plucky and sure of his
hands’, with an ‘uncanny sense of position’.
Back in Drumree, he was one of the founder members of the St. Marys Juvenile
GAA club catering for Dunshaughlin and Drumree, and was their chief advisor
and organiser during a very successful period for the underage club. In 1960,
Dunshaughlin were defeated by a Donaghmore team strengthened by players from
outside the county. Ciaran, who abided by the two steadfast principles during
his period in charge of the juveniles of never playing an over age player or
a player from outside parish boundaries, resigned, as the County Board failed
to take adequate disciplinary action against the team responsible.
The same year, 1960, saw Ciaran Murray and Mattie Russell and Larry and Dick
O’Brien travel to Rome by car for the Olympic Games. He retired from the
post of principal of Culmullen NS in 1979.
Olive Byrne (Roscommon and Navan)
Olive hailed from Castlerea in Roscommon. Her son Emmet was a talented underage
footballer and played Under 14 for Meath, one of the first from Simonstown to
pull on the green and gold.
Gary Tully (Navan)
Gary died after a tragic accident last August. He was, in his younger days,
a promising underage footballer with Simonstown.
Patrick ‘Paddy’ Donnellan (Stackallen)
Paddy was a well-known personality in Rathkenny parish and surrounding areas.
A talented sportsman in his younger days, he was very much at home on the GAA
pitches of Meath. Another interest was tennis and in 1982 he was elected National
President of the Irish Lawn Tennis Association. Paddy’s sons were talented
footballer with Rathkenny and he was predeceased by his son Norman in 2007.
Fr. Sean Cassidy
(Kilmainhamwood and Wicklow)
Sean, along with his brother Seamus (currently chaplain to the Royal Meath Association
in Dublin) went to Clonliffe College to study for the priesthood. Both men played
on the Kilmainhamwood intermediate championship winning team of 1965 with Sean
acting as captain. Walterstown had beaten the ‘Wood in the 1964 showdown.
Both brothers attended St. Patricks school in Navan and while staying with their
aunt on Flower Hill, played with Navan’s De La Salle up to minor level.
Sean, as is common with most priests, served in different areas and after working
in Dun Laoghaire for 16 years there was public outcry when another move was
proposed for the popular curate. The ‘Wood man served in Blessington from
1967 and there in north Wicklow became involved with the Kilbride club. A club
official described him as thus “the late Father Sean Cassidy played a major
part in the success of Kilbride GFC during the late 1960s. As well as being
a member of the Miley Cup or the Wicklow senior championship winning side of
1968, he also served as club chairman. Sean played at centre half back in that
‘68 final against Baltinglass and was hugely influential as his adopted
club claimed their second senior title. He is remembered as a star in the Kilbride
area and the present club jersey still includes an emblem with a white star
on a blue background on the left chest. This owes its origins to the time when
Sean secured the loan of a set of rugby jerseys from St. Marys College.”
Local legend also tells us that in that Baltinglass final Sean played under
an assumed name. He lined out with the Wicklow county team, while also dabbling
at rugby. He remained however a huge supporter of the green and gold.
When his mortal remains arrived at Kilmainhamwood church, it was met by a guard
of honour of club members old and young. His brother Fr. Seamus was presented
with a photograph of the ‘65 team. The concelebrated funeral mass was a
moving and fitting tribute to a great person and his body was laid to rest in
the soil of his home, Kilmainhamwood. (HC)
Michael Cahill (Liscarton and Athboy)
Michael was a very talented footballer in his younger days and was a star player
with the old Martry club. Later he lined out with the Martry-Bohermeen amalgamation
of Harps and then Athboy where he came to live. Michael remained a big supporter
of the Meath GAA team.
Rosemary Regan (Kildare and Carlanstown)
On Wednesday evening, 27th August 2008, the Regan family of Gravelstown, Carlanstown,
went into mourning following the death of Rosemary Regan. Rosemary was the wife
of Christy, a former player, selector and trainer of St. Michaels GFC, and mother
of Nigel and Daithi, former Meath players, Kenneth and Aisleen, a former Meath
ladies player. Our club can only imagine the pain, suffering and loss they have
felt and we would like to extend our sympathy over the loss of a truly dedicated
member and supporter.
Rosemary was a person whose life revolved around her family and St. Michaels.
During the years when her children attended school she spent time on both the
Parents Committee and the Community Games Committee. It was from this time that
the plea for a ladies football team emerged.
For a number of years that team was highly successful and Rosemary was also
a player and selector.
In 2007, the ladies team was reformed with Rosemary’s help and is once
again successful with their recent championship win, of which Rosemary would
be very proud.
Within St. Michaels, apart from being one of our top sellers for any lotto or
fundraising ticket, she also found time to act on the club committee, represent
the club as PRO, wash jerseys and if any repairs were necessary they were always
ready for the next game.
In recent years Rosemary was also actively involved with the over 60s Youth
Club Committee which was founded by Fr. Brendan Corrigan PP. The club, which
is based in our clubhouse, has provided a social outlet for our senior citizens
and there was nothing Rosemary loved more than the annual Christmas party.
Rosemary never sought the limelight, she liked to see others enjoy success and
congratulations, and she was proud just to be involved as part of a team working
in the background.
On the day of her funeral, which was one of the largest in recent years, we
formed a guard of honour and afterwards in the clubhouse where refreshments
were served, there were many photographs which brought back fond and happy memories
of Rosemary.
Through this small dedication we would like to publicly express our heartfelt
sympathy to Rosemary’s mother Rose, brothers, sisters, husband Christy,
sons Nigel, Daithi, Kenneth and daughter Aisleen.
We would also like to thank the representatives of the various Meath County
Board and many GAA clubs who attended and expressed their sympathies.
Rosemary may be gone from us, but she will never, ever be forgotten.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
St. Michaels GFC.
Patrick ‘Patsy’ Gaughran (Ballinlough)
Patsy was a member of a family long associated with the Ballinlough club. A
number of his sons played with the north Meath outfit. Patsy and his wife Gretta
were devoted Meath supporters and rarely missed a game when their heroes in
green and gold were playing.
John Connolly (Connemara and Crossakiel)
John hailed from Rosaveal, deep in the Connemara Gaeltacht and came to live
in Meath many years ago. A number of his sons played with the local Ballinlough
club. He was famous for his remarkable ability to cure burns of the flesh. Also
for his poteen making exploits and John supplied a top class product to interested
parties. His house was located near a crossroads on the Kells-Oldcastle road
and hence the name of the well-known Connollys Cross.
Dennis ‘Denny’ Clarke (Dunderry)
Denny was heavily involved in the Dunderry club. He also acted as a groundsman
at Pairc Tailteann and it was his hard work and skills that had the pitch in
immaculate condition at all times. As reported in the Meath Chronicle: “before,
during and after a game it was his pleasant smile and quick wit that greeted
those who came knocking at the back door under the stand at Pairc Tailteann.
He had a good word for everyone and all spoke kindly of him.”
Enda Murphy (Kells and Ballyhaunis)
Enda moved to the east Mayo town during the early 1980’s where he became
highly involved in the local community. He played junior football for Meath
and remained a passionate follower of his beloved Royal County. Enda’s
brother Joe was a star footballer with the Kells outfit Gaeil Colmcille during
the 1960s and early ‘70s and was full forward on the Meath team beaten
by Kerry in the All-Ireland final of 1970.
Micheal Clarke (Skryne)
There was an air of sadness around the parish of Skryne with the passing of
Micheal Clarke. Micheal was one of the few remaining members of the great Skryne
team of the 1940s, winning SFC medals in 1947 and ‘48. He was also the
holder of four Feis Cup medals, helping Skryne to a magnificent four-in-a-row
from 1946 to ‘49.
Equally adept at playing in defence or attack, Micheal lined out for Skryne
in the championship final defeats to North Meath in 1950 and to Syddan in 1951
and ‘52. From the full forward position he executed a succession of great
scores. Micheal was a member of the Skryne juvenile team which was beaten by
Syddan in the 1938 final. The Skryne boys registered one point, scored by Micheal.
The quiet and unassuming man from Skerryhill played many outstanding games for
the club.
Apart from his prowess on the football field, he played pitch and putt and was
a founder member of the Rathfeigh club. He enjoyed the ‘Sport of Kings’
with the Irish Grand National run over his land at Fairyhouse for countless
years.
His measured tones and intelligent conversation had the uncanny knack of putting
people at ease. With tales from the not too distant past he held his listeners.
Micheal’s passing has left a void in Skryne, Rathfeigh and the surrounding
areas.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Skryne GFC
Jim Connor (Skryne)
The passing of Jim Connor only six months after the death of his brother Jack,
was a sad occasion for his family and the people of Skryne.
Jim was one of Skryne’s outstanding footballers throughout the 1950s and
‘60s. He had a long career in the Skryne jersey from 1956 to 1969, playing
in five senior football championship finals, 1957, ‘58, ‘59, ‘65
and ‘69.
In the early years of his career, he played midfield and on the ‘40’,
and he was an excellent fielder of the ball and a strong tackler with uncanny
judgement. These qualities ensured his position on the team for 14 years. Although
it was not Skryne’s most productive era, very little separated them from
Navan O’Mahonys in three final defeats in the 1950s.
Having reverted to right full back in the early ‘60s, Jim gave many fine
displays for the Blues and helped them win the Keegan Cup and Feis Cup in 1965.
After 11 years on the playing fields, he captained Skryne to the prestigious
Brian O’Higgins tournament win in 1967. The versatile Scalestown star was
still going strong in 1969 and played an outstanding game in the narrow defeat
to Kilbride in the championship final.
Jim won many tournament trophies and his grasp of the seven-a-side game helped
him to a couple of wins in the famous Dunshaughlin showpiece.
After some great performances in the early ‘60s, the tall elegant Skryne
footballer caught the eye of the Meath selectors. He wore the green and gold
jersey in the NFL and O’Byrne Cup games in 1960 and 61.
Jim also turned his hand to pitch and putt and was a founder member of the Rathfeigh
club in 1972.
The members of Skryne football club, and many more from club around the county,
formed a guard of honour at his funeral. His coffin was draped in the famous
blue and white colours.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Skryne GFC
Jim Queeney (Na Fianna)
The sudden and untimely death occurred on 25th June last of Jim Queeney, Sergeant-in-Charge
at Enfield Garda Station (since 2004) and then chairman of Na Fianna hurling
and football club.
His death, which shocked all within the community, leaves a void felt by those
who knew him and no more than members of his beloved Na Fianna GAA club.
Jim, or JJ as he was affectionately known, began his involvement with the GAA
in his native Galway and continued when he moved to the Enfield area in the
early 1980s by playing hurling with the Baconstown club and football with Enfield.
In Galway he won a county minor A hurling medal with the Pearses and was later
to play with the clubs adult team. Apart from the outstanding service he has
given as a state employee in his role as a member of An Garda Siochana, Jim’s
involvement with the formation of the Na Fianna hurling and football club in
2000 and his continued pressing for improved facilities at both the Baconstown
and Enfield pitches are the true testament of his contribution to his adopted
GAA parish.
His leadership, forward planning, commitment to the young players in the club
as well as his conviviality and gentleness were the hallmarks of the man that
will be so sadly missed by the Na Fianna GAA family.
To his wife Geraldine (who is also a tireless worker for the club), his sons,
Brian (manager of the club’s under 16 boys football team), Jamie (one of
the club’s brightest lights as a county representative), Daniel (currently
on the county under 16 football team), and daughter Katie (a storming corner
back who helped Na Fianna under 14 girls win the Division 2 final last year),
the entire Na Fianna GAA pass on their condolences and join with them in mourning
their sad loss.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Na Fianna GAA club.
Denis McElligot
(Kerry, Donaghmore-Ashbourne)
It is with great sadness that Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA club announce the death
of a great club member and player Denis McElligot.
Denis, a native of Lixnaw in Co. Kerry, passed away after a short illness. Denis,
a teacher in business and accountancy, had the experience to serve the club
in the role of assistant treasurer and treasurer for a period of 20 years. A
true gentleman and excellent club treasurer with his attention to detail and
ability to account for every cent second to none. At executive meetings he often
preached that as a club we were spending beyond our means, yet when any team
or individual had a request for finance he always provided what was required
without complaint.
His approach to club funds was indeed confirmation that ‘looking after
the pennies the pounds will look after themselves’ to run a tight ship
was always to the club’s advantage and reflected in a first class financial
report being presented each year.
Being from the Kingdom his role in the club was not just in administration,
as he ran a number of underage teams with Donaghmore Ashbourne. In addition
to being involved with the GAA club, Denis also gave his time to other groups
within the parish including the Community Information Centre.
Unfortunately for Denis, who worked so hard in recent years fundraising for
the new facility in Killegland West, his death did not allow him to see the
finished product and as a club we know his passing makes it much more difficult
to accept.
Not alone was he a great club member, but he was a very popular singer and for
those of us who experienced his tales around the fire in Wotton, it was an experience
never to miss. Denis could sit all night and sing a song for every county. He
could recite poetry and stories in a unique style well into the early hours
as he entertained a gathering.
The club send our support and sympathies to his wife Anne, his daughter and
two sons and his extended family.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Donaghmore/Ashbourne GAA
Stiofain O Mealod (Rathcairn)
Ar an 29 ú la Deireadh Fomhair 2007 de bharr timpleiste tubaisteach bothair,
caill muid loach óg, sár-pheileadoír, cara buan dá
chairde, dá co-imreoirí, dá ghaolta agust dá chomarsain
nuair a thainig an sceal chugainn faoi bhás Stiofain Ó Méalóid.
Is deacair focal a scríobh nó aon rud a rá agust an ualach
bóinmhar atá orainn go leír ó d’imigh Stiofain
uainn.
Aireoidh muid uainn go mór é, ní amháin Clann na
nGael act go h-airithe a thuismitheoirí dílís Caitlín
again Mártin Ó Méalóid, a dhearthaír Tomás,
agust a dheirfiúacha Nora agust Caitlin Óg ní amhain go
raibh árd-leibheal peil den scóth san bhfear óg croíúil
seo ach bhií máistreacht aige ar aon dúshlán a bhí
aireadh ós a chomhair, an tractor gorm a thóg se lena lámha
fhéin mar shampla bhí gearn agus meas ar an bhfear óg misniúl
seo a bhí mar bhall don bhfoireann peile a bhuaigh craobh sóisear
A an chontaie i mbliana ar an 21 ú lá Deireach Fomhair thug se
taispeántas peile duinn nuair a bhuaigh a fhoireann fhéin craobh-shraith
B an chontae i gconne Gaile Colmcille. Thug sé taispeantas eile ar an
25 ú lá Deireadh Fomhair nuair a d’imir se faoi 21 agust
bhuaigh said lé 4-17 in aghaidh 1-3 i gcoinne Droim Ríogh.
Thaining na sluaite aimsear na sochrade le hómos agust combhrón
a dhéanamh le Mháirtin, Caitlín, Tomás, Nóra
agust Caitlín Og, chomh maith lena ghaolta ar fad a bhí croí-bhriste.
“Ní dheanfar dearmad ort go deo, a Stiofain.”
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.
We often say you can tell a lot about a lad by the way he plays his football.
‘Tuck’ played with determination, discipline, skill and honesty.
‘Tuck’ played hard and fair. There was never a wrong word, never mind
a wrong blow, a pleasure to train, a pleasure to know, a class act on and off
the pitch and a credit to his family.
At times we would wonder if we were going to have a team. Then ‘Tuck’
would drive in, in his pick-up (late as usual) and it would seem as if half
of Rathcairn was getting out of the back. Typical ‘Tuck’, always surrounded
by his friends. We had a team.
We would say ‘Tuck’ your late - and then you would get that smile,
the smile that everyone got and all was forgotten.
How ironic that ‘Tuck’, who was always in the right place at the right
time on the pitch, was in the wrong place at the wrong time off it.
We wish we could explain better what ‘Tuck’ meant to the club. The
example he set and the standards he held. ‘Tuck’ will be a huge loss
and greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
These are only a few of the memories that the players and mentors will have
of ‘Tuck’. How lucky we are.
On behalf of the club and the community we would like to express our deepest
sympathy to ‘Tuck’s’ family and friends. ‘Tuck’, you
will be greatly missed.
Go ndearna dia Trocaire ait a ainm.
Athboy GAA
Sean Power
(Waterford and Kilberry)
Sean was a native of Stradbally, Co Waterford and was very proud of this fact.
He enjoyed heading to Croke Park every summer to watch the Deise play and had
high hopes for them to lift the Liam McCarthy, but it wasn't to be.
Sean and his parents John and Margaret along with his sister and brothers, emigrated
to Luton, England in the 1960's. Soon after Sean was showing his first signs
of passion for GAA when becoming strongly involved in the St Vincents club Luton.
He served as assistant secretary at first before becoming chairman in 1970.
Sean held this position throughout the seventies, a period in which the Vincents
won no fewer than four trebles of Championship, League and Fr O Hanlon Cups.
Although Sean did not play himself he was very proud of the role of his two
brothers Jim and Noel who starred on the successful teams.
While in Luton Sean served as secretary of the Hertfordshire Co Board which
he represented at GAA congress. It was in 1990 that Sean and his family returned
to Ireland and settled in Castletown Kilberry. It wasn't long before Sean became
involved with the Bhulf Ton club. He first became active at underage before
turning his attention to the adults and became chairman during the 1990's. Sean
did step down as chairman for a short period before being swiftly returned in
2003 and held onto this position until his sad passing in January 2008. It was
during this time that the club’s amazing winning sequence began, winning
5 county championships along with a Leinster Intermediate and an All Ireland
Junior title which was secured in 2004. The sight of the Keegan Cup in Wolfe
Tones’ dressing room in 2006 brought the biggest smile to Sean's face and
he was extremely proud of all the club's achievements in getting to the top
of Meath football in such a short time and of being chairman through it all.
The club’s outstanding success on the field was backboned by Sean's leadership
and an enthusiastic committee. He left no stone unturned in his efforts to support
all the club’s teams in their quest for success. Sean was always on hand
for everyone at the club and had a great relationship with Tony Kearney and
his team mentors as well as players and supporters which was the foundation
for success. Sean played a pivotal role in getting sponsorship for the club
and organising fundraising events, especially the annual golf classic which
was always a success, and in which he always took part as golf was another of
Sean's sporting loves. The Waterford man was also a steward at Pairc Tailteann
where he would rarely miss a match and was always proud to see players from
Wolfe Tones take to the field in Navan representing their county in both hurling
and football.
Sean's work did not stop with Bhulf Ton as he was chairperson of the parent's
association in Wilkinstown N.S, a Minister of the Eucharist in Kilberry church
and a member of the Pioneer association.
Sean worked as site foreman for Precision Construction Ltd on some of the largest
building projects in the country for the past 10 years.
He was very proud of his sons, Seanin and Maurice-Dee whenever they lined out
for Wolfe Tones and his roar when the Tones were victorious will indeed be sadly
missed.
Sean is survived by his wife Claire, daughters Sinead and Abby, sons Seanin,
Maurice-Dee and Eireann as well as grandchildren, Josh, Ben and Molly, his sister
Maureen and brothers Jim, Matt and Noel.
Wolfe Tones GAA
Tommy McDonnell (Seneschalstown)
The Seneschalstown club was in mourning with the sad news of the untimely death
of one of its great stalwarts Tommy McDonnell.
From the time he came to live in the parish 34 years ago he has been actively
involved in all aspects of club life. Tommy was passionate about football and
had an undying love for his adopted club.
Tommy’s playing days were spent with his native Baile Gib where he won
a Junior B championship medal in 1968 playing at full forward in a team backboned
by the McDonnell brothers. He was a strong and skilful player and as an opponent
remarked at his funeral ‘he had no reverse’.
Tommy had a huge involvement with underage teams in the club over a 15 year
period beginning in the early eighties. These were great times for Tommy and
championship and league wins at every level from under 12 to under 21 gave him
tremendous satisfaction. There were, of course, many disappointments and near
misses too but he never dwelt too long on these and once one season was over
he waited anxiously for the next one to start. The work he and others put in
at underage level was soon to bear fruit when the Keegan Cup was won for the
second time in the club’s history in 1994. It was one of the proudest moments
of his life seeing his sons Gerry and Tony collect senior medals along with
several others whom he had nurtured during his time with the underage teams.
He loved Meath football too and made trips to Croke Park or away games which
were great family occasions. It gave him immense joy to see our club players
represent the county at all levels. He loved Colm Coyle for his determination
and aggressive style of play and of course Mattie McCabe and Joe Sheridan were
others whom he greatly admired. But he had a special place in his heart for
Graham Geraghty whom he mentored for so many years. Tommy frequently talked
about the great times he enjoyed with him and how fortunate he was to have watched
him develop from a nine year old to becoming an outstanding athlete and footballer.
The day Graham came back to Kentstown as an All-Ireland winning captain was
a memorable time for Tommy. He was proud too that he predicted Graham’s
fame at a very early age. After Graham captained the under 12 team to a championship
win in 1985, the question was posed to Tommy what future he saw for this young
lad. ‘If he is lucky enough to avoid injury he will be a great one’
was his response. He was invariably a selector with one of the adult teams during
his period at the club. If he failed to get the senior job he would take the
juniors. If he was not involved in team management at a game he was always available
to help out usually as a linesman. It was a regular sight to see him running
up and down the line in a brown leather jacket giving very decisive signals
some of which could at times been described as somewhat controversial.
But his actions and deeds in 2007 best illustrate the character of the man and
his love of football and of our club. Even though he was ill and the outlook
was not good for him health wise, he took on the task of team selector with
zest and vigour. He attended every game, training session and meeting where
it was humanely possible for him to do so. He never complained once even if
he must at times been in severe distress. Along with Damien Sheridan and Ian
Maguire he played a huge role in moulding this team. His struggle to fight his
illness had a massive motivational influence on the team. A struggle that was
rewarded when the Keegan Cup was annexed after the team gave a magnificent performance
to overcome O’Mahonys in the final. During his victory speech, team captain
Cormac Quinn handed him the Keegan Cup with the words ‘Tommy - this is
for you’. It was an emotional moment and many tears were shed when Tommy
held the Cup aloft in front of the huge gathering and to one of the loudest
cheers of the afternoon. The bond within this team, which he helped to forge,
was very well illustrated when the entire panel of players and management team
collectively called to Tommy’s home when his remains returned there and
together they prayed for their now deceased friend and colleague.
Outside of football Tommy was a devoted family man and a very successful business
man. He was a trojan worker and although small in stature, had a massive physical
strength. He instilled his strong work ethic in his family and in his workforce.
No matter how late the celebrations they were never allowed to interfere with
his work.
On the shortest day of the year we laid our dear friend to rest after a relatively
short life. In a fitting tribute to Tommy the players of 1994 and 2007 and club
members led by the club chairperson Liz Sheridan and current senior team manager
Damien Sheridan accompanied his funeral cortege from Kentstown School to his
final resting place at Kentstown church. He was not forgotten by his former
club either as his former team mates and Wolfe Tones’ members joined with
Seneschalstown in forming a guard of honour at his graveside.
Whilst our loss is great, it is insignificant when compared to the loss felt
by his wife Veronica, his daughters Claire and Aileen, sons Gerry and Tony,
mother, sisters, brothers, grandchildren, sons and daughters-in-law and their
extended families. To them we offer our deepest sympathies at this very sad
time.
Ni fhacimid a leithead aris. Ionad I measc naomh na nEirinn go raibh aige.
Seneschalstown GFC.
James Russell (Bective)
The Bective club mourned the passing of James Russell, who was a president and
one of the main driving forces behind the Cannistown club.
James came from a family steeped in gaelic games, with his father Mattie one
of the best Meath footballers of his era and a championship winner during a
club career with Navan Pioneers and Navan Gaels. His mother May was also a GAA
enthusiast, her brother Willie Clynch was a member of the first Meath team to
win a NFL in 1933, and the fortune of all teams wearing the green and gold of
the county were always discussed in the house as James grew up.
James played underage with De la Salle and at adult level with Navan O’Mahonys
and was described by a team mate as a ‘livewire forward who didn’t
know what it meant to give up’.
After his playing days were over James dedicated himself to his family and his
well known plumbing business. It was then his association with Bective started
as James became involved at underage level as his children began to play with
the club.
At a time when Bective were struggling, James was a driving force in organising
teams and putting in the foundations at underage level which led to future adult
successes. He served as a manager and guiding force to a host of players who
only became involved in the club because of James’ ability to bring people
on board.
Having given over a decade of service at underage level he continued his work
at committee level and served as a selector and manager with adult football
teams on numerous occasions. Indeed, for many years the meeting place for Bective
teams before they departed to games was outside James’ house on the Dublin
Road.
James’ love of gaelic games saw him propose and almost single-handedly
start up a hurling team in Bective in 1998. He brought hurlers, both young and
old, into the green and white jersey of the club and a venture which many thought
had little chance of ever getting off the ground continued for a number of years
purely because of the dedication of James.
A source of great pride to James was the involvement of his children in the
GAA, with sons Matthew, Ruairi and David all donning the Bective colours, while
daughter Niamh was an accomplished camogie player. Indeed, his two eldest sons
both captained the club’s adult team, with Ruairi having the distinction
of leading Bective to junior championship glory with a final win over Skryne
in 1997.
Ruairi was later on the Meath team that claimed the All-Ireland JFC title in
2003 and there was nobody happier than James as Galway were beaten on All-Ireland
final day. A club President for the last number of years, Bective will always
remember the man who many referred to as ‘Jamesie’ but the club’s
loss is insignificant compared to the loss felt by his wife Ann Marie, sons
Matthew, Ruairi and David, daughter Niamh, sister, brothers, granddaughter,
his extended family and friends.
Cepta Cudden (Slane and Duleek)
Nee Harding - Cepta was a much loved member of the famed Slane family. Her brothers
Oliver, Sean, Eamonn, Toddie, Anthony and Kevin have all provided great service
to the Slane club for decades, both on and off the field of play. Cepta married
Frankie Cudden from Duleek and gained membership into another GAA household.
Frankie was a key member of the Duleek side which swept to Meath intermediate
championship honours in 1966. Their son Oliver was an outstanding player for
the Duleek club, played county junior, trained a number of club underage teams,
acted as a senior selector and club secretary. Cepta was the grandmother of
Bryan, a current club senior panelist, Warren and Stephen. Warren is a current
minor player with Duleek/Bellewstown, while Stephen plays in Drogheda with the
Oliver Plunketts under 12 team. Her granddaughters Ciara and Aoife both played
on the Duleek ladies team, while Aoife represented Meath at underage level.
In her youth Cepta was a champion Irish dancer.
John Corrigan
(Athboy and Trim)
John was one of the grand old characters of Trim. He worked for years as a bread
delivery man for Spicers and was known in parts of south west Meath and neighbouring
areas of Westmeath as Johnny the Breadman. John was a regular winner at the
Royal Meath Show and in the Trim Tidy Garden’s competition. He was an avid
follower of the Meath football team.
Sarah McGoldrick (Skryne)
Sarah died suddenly while on a one-year trip to Australia. Her brother David
is a well-known footballer with the Skryne club.
Padraig Cooney (Laytown)
It is with deep regret that we record the sad passing of club stalwart Padraig
Cooney in September 2008. He was involved with the St. Colmcilles club as long
as anyone can remember and was treasurer for a time in the 1990s. Padraig had
managed many underage teams and was an integral part of the Seaside Leagues
which were ran for many years in the area.
He was a key organiser in getting strong teams out from the Laytown area year
in and year out. Padraig Cooney was a great fundraiser for the Cilles and organised
a number of very successful 10 week draws. St. Colmcilles recently commenced
a club lotto and he was responsible for building up a wide support base in Laytown.
Padraig was a great supporter of the Meath team and was seen at many games with
his family. His son Neil played with the Cilles and became a popular and well-liked
secretary. Padraig Cooney will be sadly missed by his family and all members
of the club and parish.
St. Colmcilles GFC
Denis Colfer (Kilrue)
Denis, who died in June, was a stalwart of the general Kilbride community and
was involved in numerous local projects for many years. He was a committee member
and vice-chairman of Kilbride GFC during the years of 1960 to 1964 - exciting
times for the Dublin-border club who were about to set out on a trip which eventually
brought the small unit to the very top of the Meath football tree. Denis was
a selector on both the intermediate championship winning team of 1962 and the
Feis Cup winning side the following season. He remained a life-long supporter
of the club.
Kilbride GFC
The following people were associated with the Ballinabrackey club and sadly
passed away in the year gone:
Shay Fox (Kiliskillen)
Shay was a life-long member and an Honorary President of the club. Shay played
for the ‘Bracks in the 1948 junior final.
Peter Moore (Kildangan)
Peter played with the club during the 1940s and lined out in the junior final
of 1948.
John Quinn (Castlejordan)
John was secretary of the club when Ballinabrackey last won the junior title
in 1985. He was still involved with the club up until the time of his sudden
death.
Fr. Dillon (Ballynacargy)
Fr. Patrick Dillon was joint President of the club.
Sean T. Farrell
Sean was a member and a sponsor of the club in the past and was a great follower
and supporter of Meath GAA.
Ballinabrackey GFC
The following are people associated with the Drumconrath club who sadly passed
away in the year gone:
Brendan Hamilton
Brendan was a Drumconrath player during the late 1970s and early 1980s before
emigrating to England. He also served on the Drumconrath committee and in general
was a popular character around our village in north Meath. Brendan was a great
clubman, always there and ready and willing to pull on the club jersey. The
entire village mourned his untimely passing in tragic circumstances in south
London and hope that those responsible will be brought to justice.
Tom Halpenny
Tom was a good Drumconrath gael and grandfather to a number of present and past
players including Michael Og Gallagher, Thomas and Kevin Dardis, Thomas, Terry
and Mark Halpenny.
Bridget Martin
Bridget was the mother of former player Fr. Sean Martin and grandmother to a
number of Drumconrath and Meath Hill underage players. These include John, Conor,
Niall and Eoin Martin, and Martin Tully.
Pauline Tighe
Pauline was the grandmother of present player Gary Tighe.
Johnny Mooney
Johnny was the father of past players and committee members Sean and Paul Mooney.
Bridget Halpenny
Bridget was the mother of former committee member Eileen Carolan and grandmother
to former players Daragh and Niall Carolan.
Peggy Halpin
Peggy was an aunt of present star goalkeeper Sean Kane.
Elizabeth McIvor (nee Myles)
Elizabeth died in England but remained a loyal supporter of both Meath and Drumconrath.
Drumconrath GFC.
Margaret ‘Maggie’ Jennings
(Mayo and Dunshaughlin)
Maggie, who passed away in January 2008 was the mother of twins Pat and John
Jennings who were involved with the Leinster winning Meath minor squad of 1972.
Pat, like a number of his name, was a star goalkeeper. The boys also lined out
for Dunshaughlin in 1977 as intermediate football honours were gained, Pat in
goals and John at midfield. Even though Maggie was a Dunshaughlin supporter,
she roared on her native Mayo at intercounty level. The Mayo flag had a prominent
position outside her house whenever the Westerners played on the big day and
especially in 1996 when Meath were the opposition. She is survived by her husband
Patrick, sons Pat and John, daughters Breege, Mary and Anne, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law
and grandchildren who include sportswriter David Jennings.
Dunshaughlin GFC
Joan Maguire (Tipperary and Lobinstown)
Joan, who passed away in December 2007, was a former juvenile secretary of the
Syddan club. From Tipperary, her husband Tom was a star player in times past,
while her son Eamon also lined out with the club.
Syddan GFC
Tony Donoghue (Woodtown)
Tony ran the popular Donoghue’s Pub on the Kells-Ardee road for a number
of years and was a great supporter and sponsor of the Syddan club. His sons
all wore the green and gold of the north Meath outfit. In 2008, Eddie acted
as a junior selector while Sean was a committee member.
Syddan GFC
Kevin Pender (Enfield)
Kevin was a former player and active member of Enfield GFC. When his playing
days were over he became closely involved with the maintenance of the GAA pitch
in what was then the village of Enfield. The fact that he was so close to the
grounds meant that he was for many years the key holder for the dressing rooms
and carried out this function with great friendliness.
Peter Coffey (Enfield)
Peter was a staunch supporter of the former Baconstown hurling and Enfield football
clubs and indeed played with both units during the 1960s. His sons Patrick and
Peter played hurling and football with the parish teams, winning a number of
medals during the 1990s.
Seamus McInerney (Enfield)
Seamus was the father of two members of the club’s underage teams, Bernard
and Helen.
Sai Mann (Enfield)
Sai was the father of underage player Ethan Mann.
All supplied by Na Fianna CLG
Frank Gilsenan (Kiltale and Moynalvey)
Frank moved form Carrickmacross to Meath in the early 1940s. He was an avid
supporter of all Meath teams, travelling the length and breadth of the country
supporting sides representing the county in all codes, levels and age groups.
He was always seen with his wife Maureen by his side.
Frank’s family followed his great love for the GAA and each member has
played football, hurling or camogie and many are still involved as players,
club officers and team mentors.
Over the years he saw many of his children achieve success on the playing fields,
including his sons Joe and Brian who won senior hurling championships for Kiltale
in 1982-83 and in 2007 Ollie and Brian gained All-Ireland hurling B medals for
Meath.
In 2006 Frank and Maureen were honoured to receive the Kiltale Hall of Fame
award, which was presented to them by Brian Cody and in 2007 received the Meath
Sean Gael award.
Frank was a very popular member of the parish and was a keen card player and
was always at the forefront in fundraising etc. for the club.
Frank, who was 82 years of age, has family members involved today with the Kiltale,
Moynalvey, Summerhill and Dunderry clubs. A guard of honour was provided at
his funeral by Kiltale and Moynalvey club members and card players.
Kiltale HC/Moynalvey GFC
Patricia ‘Trisha’ Mulligan
(Branganstown, Kiltale, Dunsany)
The untimely death of Trisha Mulligan occurred on St. Stephens morning after
her 18 month battle with cancer. Trisha was just 33 years of age and the mother
of two little girls, Liz and Amy, aged only 2 and 4 at her death. Trisha was
a very popular native of Kiltale and a great supporter of the hurling and camogie
teams. She was a big follower of all games and events in the locality. Only
weeks before her death she watched John Donoghue lift the senior hurling trophy
in Navan against Kilmessan with great pride and cried with the rest of us on
that very special day. Trisha is sadly missed by her two little daughters, her
father Ned, her sister Ann and brothers Hugh and Eddie and many, many relatives
and friends. Sadly, her mother Carmel also passed away in June of 2006 just
18 months before Trisha. May the light of heaven always shine upon them.
Kiltale HC
Fr. Walter Nugent (Carnaross)
Fr. Walter Nugent spent almost forty years serving in Korea having been ordained
in 1957. Prior to his departure he was an accomplished footballer for both club
and county. He was part of the Carnaross junior and intermediate winning sides
of 1955 and 1957. For the intermediate decider in 1957 he was a student in Dalgan
Park and could not obtain a release for the final. Being one of the club’s
better players, he was a sore loss. The selectors picked the team without him,
but just as Carnaross were about to go onto Pairc Tailteann, Fr. Walter arrived,
boots and all. He went on as a substitute at the interval and played his part
in the historic victory, which saw the club capture the intermediate title for
the first time. He also represented Meath at minor and junior levels. Fr. Walter
was part of the Meath junior team that won the All-Ireland in 1952, but missed
out on the later stages of the championship as he returned to Dalgan Park to
study for the priesthood. He has three nephews currently playing with Carnaross
- Thomas, Peter and Patrick while their sister Jane assisted as doctor to the
Meath team this year.
Carnaross GFC
James Heerey (Drumbaragh)
Jimmy was a lifelong clubman and was Club President up until his death. His
grandsons still wear the green and red and one of his proudest days was when
his grandson Adrian Corcoran raised the Junior B Cup for Drumbaragh in 1999.
Aidan ‘Ainey’ Lynch (Kells)
Aidan was best known as a hard working local councillor. He was also a great
follower of GAA affairs. Aidan was a brother of well-known Drumbaragh club chairman
and referee Frankie Lynch.
Michael Smith (Kells)
A former Drumbaragh player, Michael came from a great football background. Both
of his grandfathers were previous chairmen of the club. His father Mick and
uncles Joe and Sean were key players for Drumbaragh during the ‘70s and
‘80s. His brother John and cousins John and Mark continue to play for the
Drums.
Michael Carry (Kells)
Popularly known as ‘Sprout’, Michael’s sudden death came as a
great shock to club members. Only five days previous he lined out against Wolfe
Tones in the junior championship. Pre-deceased by his brother Patrick, ‘Sprout’
was one of the leading lights of the Drumbaragh Junior D team which reached
the 2007 final. His performance in that decider against Clan na Gael was probably
his finest in the green and red as he scored 2-2 from play. Michael forced his
way onto the junior A team in 2008. A brilliant personality to have in any dressing
room, he will be sorely missed by team mates, club mates and his many friends.
Pauline Insley (nee Tormay - Kells)
Pauline was heavily involved in the early days of the Drumbaragh club. A star
camogie player, she also trained the team.
All supplied by Drumbaragh GFC
Christy Pearle (Readstown)
Christy lived at Readstown in Summerhill and died at his home suddenly on January
3rd, 2008. Christy’s son Terry is presently the vice-chairman of the hurling
club and has been a member of the committee for many years. Terry also played
at all levels and is a all-round genuine club person.
Jim Whelan
(Rathmolyon and Bective)
Jim died on March 16th, 2008 at the age of 54 after a long illness. Jim always
enjoyed following the hurling teams in Rathmolyon. He is survived by this three
sons who all play for Rathmolyon -James, the junior goalkeeper, Graham and Daniel
both on the senior team and daughters Niamh - the current secretary of the club
and Sinead, who resides in Trim is an enthusiastic supporter.
Bernie Fagan
(Kilkenny and Rathmolyon)
Bernie died on July 16th 2008 after a short illness. She is survived by her
husband Fegie, sons Aaron, Kevin, Noel, Jack, daughters Annemarie, Noreen and
Aideen. Bernie came from a great hurling background in Kilkenny and was responsible
two years ago for bringing the famous DJ Carey to a presentation night for the
club’s Under 11s and Under 13s who won their respective championships of
that year. Bernie was an avid hurling supporter for Rathmolyon and particularly
when all of her talented sons were playing.
Lil Harnan
Lil died in June of this year. A popular publican of the famous Harnans of Rathmolyon.
Harnans are huge supporter of hurling in Rathmolyon.
Marie O’Brien
Marie died in September 2007 after a short illness. A member of the popular
Forde family of Rathmolyon, all of whom were involved in the hurling club, whether
it be playing or supporting the club. Her brother Donal is the current chairman
of the club. Marie’s son Packie has played on the Junior and Senior team.
Our thanks to Rathmolyon HC for above obituaries.
Tommy Clusker
(Dunshaughlin)
The unexpected and untimely death of Tommy Clusker (50) occurred on Monday 13th
October, 2008 after an illness. Tommy worked for 30 years in Omega Teknika,
Finglas. He was so dedicated to his company that he worked through his illness
and until a week or two before his death.
Tommy devoted his life to the youth of the area. He played underage football
with Dunshaughlin (as it was then called) and was a member of Ratoath Athletic
Club. In 1979 Tommy, with his brother Harry, Paddy Mangan, Dominic Moran, Willie
McLoughlin and the late Mick Manning founded Dunshaughlin Athletic Club. He
ran with the Dunshaughlin club for a number of years.
Tommy married Mary Plunkett in 1985 and they moved to Crestwood in Ashbourne.
They had two sons Ciaran and Niall. They remained in Ashbourne until 1995 when
they moved to Greenane, Dunshaughlin. Their children attended St. Seachnill’s
NS. Tommy joined the parent association committee and was chairman of that committee
when Charlie Gallagher retired as principal in 1999. He was a very capable master
of ceremonies on the night of Charlie’s retirement function in October
1999.
Tommy got involved in Dunshaughlin Youths soccer club when Ciaran played in
the mini-leagues. He was a mentor with the mini league teams and then progressed
to being a coach with the Under 10 team. This team was the first Dunshaughlin
Youths team to win the Brener Cup in Dalymount Park in the 1999/2000 season.
They also won the league the same year. When Ciaran moved to Dunboyne soccer
club Tommy went with him and helped with the coaching there.
At that time he was on the St. Martin’s committee and was involved in coaching
the underage teams. He continued coaching the underage up to his death. He was
a member of the management of two St. Martins teams who represented Meath at
Feile Peil na nOg in Tyrone in 2004 and in Wicklow in 2006. Ciaran was on the
team in 2004 and Niall was on the team in 2006. Every age group that Tommy was
involved with have had success in at least one of the age groups from Under
11 (Kilcloon tournament) to Under 16. His last victory as a coach came when
the St. Martins Under 16 team, which Niall is a member of, captured the Benny
Caffrey Division 1 Cup in 2008.
Last year Tommy got involved in coaching at adult level with Dunshaughlin and
had immediate success when he guided the Under 21 team to win the A championship.
We were delighted to have Tommy as our coaching officer for 2007 and were looking
forward to working with him for many years but his illness robbed us of his
expertise in 2008.
In 2008 he concentrated on the St. Martins Under 16 team and also the Meath
Under 16 team. He became involved at underage county level three years ago when
Niall was invited to join the Under 13 development squad. He was a coach, selector
and stats man with the Meath squad. Even throughout his illness he still attended
and took an active part in coaching the Meath squad. In fact, he took the training
session prior to his death.
Tommy learned he had cancer in January 2008. After the initial shock wore off
Tommy decided that this illness was not going to beat him. He had too much to
do with his work, football and above all his family. He had a wonderful positive
attitude. He felt he had two choices - either sit down and let it take over
his life, or take it on the chin and fight it. He chose the second. He said
it was like a football match at half time. His team are down ten points, what
do you do? Either give up and let your opposition beat you or go out and put
up a brave battle in the second half. He fought that brave battle with courage
and dignity and with the help of his beloved wife Mary and sons Ciaran and Niall.
Throughout his illness Tommy went to work because he said he would crack up
if he was at home doing nothing all day. No one can imagine Tommy ‘doing
nothing’.
He crammed a lifetime into his last few months. He and Mary went with the Dunboyne
soccer team to a tournament in Scotland at Easter. They travelled on a family
holiday to Spain during the summer. They were on the Meath pilgrimage to Lourdes
in September. He thoroughly enjoyed all those outings.
Tommy was never in a bad mood. He always had a smile and a greeting for everyone.
He was held in high esteem by all who knew him. This was reflected on the night
of his removal and at his funeral. A huge crowd were in attendance both days
with a guard of honour comprising of Dunshaughlin GAA, St. Martins GAA, Dunshaughlin
AC and the Meath Under 16 football team. The students from Dunshaughlin CC formed
a guard of honour on Wednesday morning. Fr. Clavin in his homily paid a fitting
tribute to a great man.
Our loss is immense, but it is nothing compared to that of his wife Mary, sons
Ciaran and Niall, his brothers Harry, Declan and Sean, his sisters Dympna and
Eithne and his extended family. To them we wish to express our deep condolences.
Earth’s loss is heaven’s gain. Thank you Tommy for giving of your
time and energy so generously to the community of Dunshaughlin and beyond.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.
Dunshaughlin GAA club
Brian O’Sullivan
(Dunshaughlin and Moynalvey)
A native of Bonestown, Dunshaughlin, Brian played his underage football with
St. Martins. He then progressed to play junior football with Dunshaughlin winning
a junior championship medal with them in 1967. In 1972 he started playing football
with Moynalvey marrying Bridie (Hoban) the following year. He continued to play
with Moynalvey for several years. Brian was an active member of the club and
also served as Chairman. He was an avid follower of the various Meath teams
and was a member of An Garda Siochana until his retirement in recent years.
Moynalvey GFC
Paul Martin
(Donaghmore/Ashbourne)
It is with great sadness that Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA club learned of the untimely
death of Paul Martin following a car accident in Co. Kilkenny.
The news of Paul’s death came as a complete shock to the Ashbourne community
considering that Paul’s mother Catherine was only buried eight days earlier
and that his grandfather James was buried only two days before that in County
Fermanagh. This third death in the Martin family left the community with a sense
of numbness.
Paul, who was only 30 years of age, was a popular member of the Donaghmore Ashbourne
GAA club and although he had taken time off in 2008 to look after his mother,
he played a pivotal role in Donaghmore Ashbourne's Division 2B league success
where he lined out regularly at full back on the team. Paul (“Fats”
or “Martini” as he was referred to) was a true gentleman. He was always
well mannered and courteous and he always greeted everyone with a smile and
had time for a quick chat.
He played gaelic football and hurling for Donaghmore Ashbourne since he was
nine years of age and also played soccer with Ashbourne United. Although out
of the game for a while he made his return a couple of years ago after his return
from travels in the southern hemisphere. While he may have struggled to regain
the full fitness of his younger years, there was always that quality and touch
to show he still had the skills that many people spoke about when referring
to how good “Martini” was. He had great hands, was tough in the tackle,
was strong but always fair. On the field he gave everything he had and was always
a team player.
Possibly his only weakness was his dislike to go training and his love for fun
and for life itself. He would always have time for a joke at training and could
also make the dressing room a lot brighter with his laugh and comments. He could
certainly lead a celebration when it was called for.
The respect and popularity that Paul had within the club and community was witnessed
at both his removal and his funeral when on both occasions the church in Ashbourne
was filled to capacity and indeed Ashbourne village came to a halt.
We can only hope that he is at peace with his mother and grandfather and as
a club we wish all our support to his father Gerry, his brother and two sisters
and indeed all his family at this unbelievable time of tragedy and loss.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Donaghmore/Ashbourne GAA.
Patrick Kenny (Moylagh)
On September 13th 2008 Moylagh GFC and the parish of Moylagh were deeply saddened
with the terrible news of the death of Patrick Kenny. Patrick, affectionately
known as Gandhi, was only 29 years old when he died tragically following an
accident.
Six days earlier Paddy had lined out for Moylagh, playing at centre forward
in the junior A quarter-final against Dunsany. Paddy played underage football
at all levels for our club. He won under 21, A league and B league medals. He
was also honoured with the Player of the Year award for 2006.
Paddy held the position of assistant secretary on our football committee from
2004 until his passing. He also sat for years on our Blotto committee. Patrick
was never found wanting on or off the field of play and always put the interest
of the club to the fore.
Moylagh football club wish to extend sympathy to the family, his fiancee and
friends. Patrick Kenny will be sadly missed by all of us.
Moylagh GAA
Sean Brady (Cavan and Navan)
Sean, who hailed from Castlerahan just about five miles outside of Oldcastle,
was a brilliant underage footballer. With his brother Tony, a future Cavan senior
player and selector, he was on the last Breffni minor team to win a provincial
title in 1974. Both Bradys lined out in attack. Sean also played with the Meath
vocational team during the early 1970s. In 1990 he purchased the popular Finnegans
Pub in Ludlow Street, Navan and quickly turned it into a haven for traditional
music lovers. Sean played with his native Castlerahan and other amalgamations
in Cavan, and on arriving in Navan became involved with the Wolfe Tones club.
Elizabeth Halligan
(Kilmainham and Castletown)
Elizabeth (nee Newman) was the aunt of Meath minor star Michael Newman. She
was a keen Kilmainham and Meath follower.
Noel Murtagh
(Bohermeen and Dunderry)
Noel died in tragic circumstances while on his first holiday abroad. Only 49
years of age, he was a more than useful footballer. Noel was a vital part of
the Harps team which claimed intermediate football championship honours in 1985.
Later on he lined out in the Dunderry colours. A minute’s silence was held
in honour of Noel prior to the 2008 intermediate championship decider featuring
his old parish neighbours Cortown and St. Ultans (an off shoot of that Harps
club). Also on that programme were Noel’s adopted club Dunderry, who took
on Gaeil Colmcille in the intermediate hurling decider at Pairc Tailteann. His
son Damien plays with Dunderry.
Agnes Harris (Gormanston)
Agnes was the wife of the late Jimmy Harris, a St. Patricks club member for
years. Their sons Sean, Paul and Nickey all played with the Pats and took up
various positions from selectors to committee members.
Mark Haran (Julianstown)
Mark was only 24 years of age and a sad loss to St. Patricks. He was ill for
a very short time and died suddenly while in hospital. His father John was chairman
of the club. His uncle Tommy played for and managed St. Pats when they won the
intermediate football championship in 2000. Mark’s late grandfather Anthony
was a life-long club member. Mark played all his football in the Pats colours
as did his brothers Paul and Andrew. His sudden death brought the club to a
standstill for a considerable time. The memory of Mark Haran lives in all his
young friends who continue to play for St. Pats.
Both above deaths provided by St. Patricks GAA
Dinny Donnelly
(Skryne and Kilmessan)
The death occurred after an illness of Dinny Donnelly, 71, who served the GAA
with distinction at club - with Kilmessan hurlers and Skryne footballers - and
county level.
His passing overshadowed Kilmessan’s SHC final win over Kildalkey in which
his son David played a key role at full back.
Two other sons figured in the Jubilee Cup winning set-up with Paul on the bench
while Tony was a selector. Paul has acted as a selector with manager John Andrews
on the Meath senior hurling team over the past two years.
Captain Ger O’Neill remembered Dinny in his acceptance speech and the Cup
was brought to him in Navan hospital.
One of his daughters Aileen captained Meath to All-Ireland junior B camogie
and National League Division 4 honours this year.
Dinny was captain of the Meath team that won the Leinster SFC in 1964 - bridging
a ten-year gap to the previous success in the competition - when beating Dublin
by 2-12 to 1-7 in the final.
The captaincy was bestowed on him as county champions O’Mahonys didn’t
have a representative on the Meath team.
Meath went on to lose by two points to Galway in the All-Ireland semi-final
and Donnelly was absent through injury when the Royal County side crashed in
the Leinster title race the following summer by going under to Longford in a
penultimate provincial tie.
A forceful, fair and dependable player who operated mainly in defence, he was
renowned for his long kick off the ground. In 1963 he was involved in a three-way
tie for the national Poc Fada title with Tom Geary (Waterford) and legendary
Kilkenny goalkeeper Ollie Walsh.
However, 1965 proved to be a memorable year for the Kilmessan farmer-victualler
(the latter business was started by his father William and Tony Loughran) as
he completed a SHC-SFC double. He also helped the hurling club to senior championship
successes in 1961, 62 and 69.
“A determined player who gave 100% every time he played and expected the
same off everyone else on the team,” is how former Kilmessan and Skryne
team mate Paddy O’Brien remembered him.
His own SFC success was achieved in controversial circumstances as the final
with Kilbride was abandoned near the end of the third quarter with Skryne trailing
by 1-3 to 1-4. Dinny lined out at centre half back that day.
When Meath regained the Leinster SFC title in 1966, Donnelly was introduced
as a substitute in a 1-9 to 1-8 win over Kildare. He lined out at right full
back in the All-Ireland final as Galway completed the three-in-a-row.
His Skryne clubmate David Carty was Meath captain that day in what proved to
be a last championship appearance for both players.
The pair also bowed out of the local senior championship scene together when
Skryne lost in a 1972 ‘semi’ to eventual winners Seneschalstown.
Dinny made his Leinster SFC debut for Meath in May 1958 at midfield in a 3-9
to 0-7 win over Longford at Mullingar.
He lined out at full forward against Dublin in the provincial ‘semi’
at Drogheda where his first half goal couldn’t prevent Meath from losing
out to the eventual All-Ireland champions by two points 2-7 to 1-12.
In November of the following year he scored five first-half goals from the number
14 berth in a 10-4 to 3-2 NFL Division 2 win over Sligo at Kells.
Dinny won Leinster JHC medals with Meath in 1961 and 1972 when lining out at
centre back and full back respectively. He rounded off his playing career by
helping Kilmessan to a JHC title success in 1977 with a 0-4 to 0-2 win over
Dunboyne.
Apart from serving Kilmessan with distinction, his sons Willie (who was a member
of the county senior football panel for a spell in 1990), Tony and Paul emulated
him by helping Skryne to SFC successes in 1992 and ‘93. David was part
of the club’s 2004 Keegan Cup win.
Predeceased by his wife Brigid (nee Curtis) in 2005. Dinny is survived by his
sons Willie, Tony, Paul and David and daughters Ann and Aileen.
(Liam O’Rourke)
James ‘Jim’ Foy (Athboy)
Jim lived to the grand age of 92 years and came to live in Athboy in 1953. Previously
he had played hurling with neighbours Brownstown just over the Westmeath border.
An avid GAA supporter, his son Paddy won five senior hurling championship medals
with Athboy during the 1960s and early 1970s. And the legacy lives on - Paddy’s
son, also Paddy Foy - has gained two intermediate hurling titles with Clann
na nGael and is a hurling referee. Marcus Quinn is another of Jim Foy’s
grandsons. Marcus, a very promising referee has also gained two intermediate
hurling medals and took charge of the 2008 Meath intermediate football decider.
Seosamh O Mealoid
(Joe Mellett - Athboy and Mullagh)
Seosamh was a member of a famous Martinstown football family. His brother Mick
was left half forward on the All-Ireland winning Meath team of 1967 and was
also on the team defeated by Kerry in the 1970 decider. Mick and brothers Colm
and Seamus were to the fore as the now defunct Martinstown club gained Meath
junior football championship honours in 1969. Colm incidentally is the father
of current Donaghmore-Ashbourne and Meath player of the same name. Seosamh was
a retired teacher living in Mullagh where he became involved with the local
Cuchullains club. In recent years Mick Mellett was associated with the St. Brigids
club in Blanchardstown, Colm was the recipient of a Sean Gael trophy, while
Seamus has gained numerous Sean Nos and dancing awards.
Barry Castles (Athboy)
Barry was tragically killed in an accident at Tara Mines during October. He
played football with the local Athboy club up until under 21 level.
George Hutton (Dunboyne)
George was a great supporter of Dunboyne GAA. His sons Denis, Billy and David
all played underage with the club, while another son George lined out at senior
and is a current hurling selector. George seniors’ daughters May played
camogie with the club and was physio for the Meath team when Sean Boylan was
involved.
Mary Ann Watters (Dunboyne)
Mary Ann’s family are heavily involved with Dunboyne GAA. She herself was
a brilliant fundraiser and held an annual flower sale to raise badly needed
monies. Mary Ann’s son Jim is a selector with the Dunboyne junior football
team. Tom is an underage hurling mentor, while another son John was a previous
selector with the Dunboyne senior hurling team. All their sons play hurling
and football with the club. Mary Ann’s daughter Bridget Guy, with her family,
is heavily involved with the Boardsmill club, while other daughters Marion,
Kathleen and Ann and their children maintain the Dunboyne connection at hurling,
football and camogie.
Frances Watters (Dunboyne)
The family of Frances are loyal supporters of Dunboyne hurling and football
clubs.
Lily McKenna (Dunboyne)
Lily’s son Frank is an active committee member. Her grandson Niall McKenna
is manager of the junior C combination, while another grandson Stephen McKenna
is a player with the senior football team.
Teresa Buckley (Dunboyne)
Teresa’s son Tom Buckley has provided great service to the Dunboyne club.
A former player, he also acted as club secretary.
All supplied by Dunboyne GAA
Margaret Ward
(Bailieboro and Garlow Cross, Navan)
Nee McMahon Margaret married popular Moynalty and Meath footballer Paddy Ward
in 1946. Her family ran the well-known Tara na Ri public house and shop at Garlow
Cross for 30 years. Margaret’s son Eamonn was full back on the talented
Meath minor team of 1975. After playing underage with Moynalty the Ward family
on moving to the area provided Walterstown with great service.
John ‘Jack’ Walsh (Clonard)
Jack played with the Clonard club during the 1950s and 1960s and was selector
on the 1971 Clonard team which gained Meath junior championship honours. Clonard
won their second piece of silverware last October when claiming the League Division
5 title at Dunsany’s expense. And captaining the team was Jack’s son
Niall, who nowadays doubles up as Clonard’s secretary. Niall was at left
half forward on the talented Meath team which went under to Cork in the All-Ireland
minor final of 1993. Jack also played with various south Meath selections and
captained Clonard to junior finals in 1958 and 1962. Clonard lost both and had
a hat-trick of mishaps when also losing the 1960 decider. Jack’s brother
Dan Walsh is current President of Clonard GFC.
As well as other deaths from the area included in this section the Dunderry
club would like to pass on sincerest sympathies to the families of the following:
Dessie Loughran - played during the 1940s, winning two intermediate championship
medals.
Mary Boyle - wife of the late Paddy Boyle, who played on the 1934 hurling team.
Michael and Tom Howley - brothers of Ned Howley.
Sean McGlew (Canada) - brother of Dick
Teresa - sister of Dessie Fagan
Johnny Mulligan - Johnny had a long association with the club over the years.
Michael Murray (Derrylangan) - father of Gerry.
Michael Rattigan - his services to the club were honoured by being appointed
club president.
Christy Collins (Boyerstown) - brother of Val Collins
Dinny Farnan - father of Grainne Dowd
Joe Casserly - Boyerstown.
Mrs. O’Brien (Kilbride) - mother of Mick.
Maggie Farrelly - mother of Martin and Eddie.
Mary Brady - aunt of Colin Conaty.
Margaret Dunne (Athboy) - sister of the late John Conroy and Helen Duffy.
Nancy Hill - sister of Jack Devine.
John Brady - brother of Mrs. Halpin, Dunlough.
James Shaffrey - a good supporter down the year.
Go dtuga Dia solas na bhFlaitheas doibh.
Bernadette Raleigh (Killyon)
Bernadette was the wife of the late Christopher ‘Kit’ Raleigh who
won a junior hurling championship medal with Killyon in 1968. Both Kit and Bernadette
were prominent members of the club at the time. The family moved to Kells during
the 1970s and then Athboy. Prior to that their sons had played juvenile with
an emerging Killyon.
Joe Kiely
(Kilkenny, Killyon and Kildare)
Joe was a native of Kilkenny and while living in the parish during the 1960s,
played hurling with Killyon. He was living in Suncroft, Co. Kildare when he
died.
Mary Ann McEntee (Moynalty)
Mary Ann was the mother of well-known Moynalty footballer Seamus McEntee. Seamus
was captain of the Moynalty team who, after a number of years trying, gained
Meath junior championship honours in 1987. Ten years earlier he was part of
the Meath panel which went under to Down in the All-Ireland minor decider.
Jim Kearns
(Donaghmore/Ashbourne)
The Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA lost another member earlier this year with the
death of Jim Kearns. Jim (80) died after a short illness. He was a member of
the Kearns family, who have long been associated with the GAA in the Donaghmore
Ashbourne area. He was on the 1959 Donaghmore team who won the Meath intermediate
title when he played along with his brother Barney. Jim was well known in the
area where he worked as a carpenter. He is survived by his wife Alacoque, sons
Padraic and David, together with his brother and four sisters - including Club
President Ally - and extended family.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam
Barney Kearns
(Donaghmore/Ashbourne)
It was a second tragedy for the Kearns family and the Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA
club when they learned of the loss of another member in September with the death
of Barney Kearns. Barney (71), died suddenly and followed the death of his brother
Jim earlier in the year. He was also a member of the 1959 Donaghmore team who
won the Meath intermediate title when he played along with his brother Jim.
In addition to being a popular member of the GAA club in the past he was well
known in the Ashbourne area due to his time as a bus driver on the Ashbourne
Dublin route. Although a quiet man, he was known for his sense of humour and
wit. He was survived by his wife Alice, sons Patsy, Brian and Liam, together
with four sisters - including Club President Ally - and extended family.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Both supplied by Donaghmore/Ashbourne club
Brian Crosbie (Hayes)
Brian was President of the Walterstown club when he died. A long time member,
he was a great supporter and had worked on every committee in the club. Brian’s
son Alban is a regular on the Blacks senior team, while another son Angie plays
with the junior B selection. Brian’s daughter Rosario lines out with the
Walterstown ladies team.
Brendan Daly
(Moynalty and Garlow Cross, Navan)
Formerly of Cormeen, Brendan was the brother of John, who was Walterstown chairman
during 2008.
Oliver Hughes (Garlow Cross)
Oliver was killed in tragic circumstances just before Christmas 2007. He was
a great supporter of the Meath footballers.
Frank Fagan (Dunboyne)
Over a career of 20 years, starting in the mid 1940s, Frank played for both
Flathouse and St. Pauls.
Fr. Peter Mulvany (Laytown)
A great GAA man, Fr. Peter was president of St. Vincents, Ardcath at the time
of his death.
Michael Reilly (Kilbeg)
Michael played with the parish teams, Carlanstown and Kilbeg, at underage and
adult level. He was a lifelong member of St. Michaels. His son John is a current
St. Michaels’ player, while another son Declan also played. Michael’s
grandsons Jason and Shane Walsh were outstanding underage players with Simonstown.
Des Gray (Dunshaughlin)
Des was a great supporter of Skryne and was one of the men behind the scenes,
working in Fr. McManus Park, especially at the drainage area. His sons Derek,
Ciaran and Cormac all pulled on the Royal Blue jersey. Derek won a junior championship
medal, Ciaran also gained a Leinster Colleges medal with St. Patricks in Navan,
while Cormac played underage with Skryne.
John Blayney (Tara)
John was a great Skryne supporter. His son, also John, is involved with underage
teams in Dunboyne.
Joseph ‘Joe’ Farrelly (Castletown)
Joe played with the Castletown club in his younger days. His family firm - Farrelly
Plant Hire - sponsored the club for years including the 1995 intermediate final
season.
Dan Dunne (Castletown)
Dan did not play for Castletown, but for years he was involved on many committees.
He was one of the nicknamed ‘Big Five’ group which was set up to build
the club stand.
Ronan Sheridan (Moylagh)
In early November of this year Moylagh Football Club lost another member with
the passing of Ronan Sheridan (52) following an illness.
Ronan was a pleasant and easy-going man off the field, but when he put on the
green and white jersey for Moylagh he played with great spirit and determination.
He lined out for the Moylagh club during the late 70s and all through the 80s
and finished his career in the early 90s. He won a league medal in ‘81
(Division 2) at wing forward.
Ronan also helped train at underage level with various grades.
Moylagh GFC.
Sean and Tommy Gilsenan (Ballinacree)
Both brothers, who died in the past 12 months, were lifelong supporters of Ballinacree
and Meath GAA. Their nephew Eugene played with the local St. Brigids club.
Jacinta Gilsenan (Ballinacree)
Jacinta was the niece of the above mentioned Sean and Tommy and sister of Eoin.
An extremely popular person she died at a very young age. She was a big St.
Brigids and Meath GAA fan.
Pat Coyle (Donegal and Ballinacree)
Donegal native Pat served as a selector with St. Brigids for a number of years.
His sons backboned the team for three decades. His late son, Patsy played for
Meath at underage level.
Joe Kelly (Simonstown)
There was widespread shock and sadness amongst Simonstown club members at the
sudden passing of Joe Kelly in August.
A native of Kildysart in Clare, Joe was heavily involved in Simonstown where
he was player/manager of the club’s third team which had qualified for
the semi-final of this year’s Junior C championship.
He was full back on the team that defeated Moylagh in the quarter-final two
weeks previous. The semi-final versus Na Fianna was cancelled as a mark of respect.
The club also called off its annual Golf Classic which was scheduled to take
place in Navan Golf Club.
Joe was a keen follower of the Clare hurling and football teams and also played
soccer with Clonmagadden FC, OMP United and Parkvilla during his time in Navan.
The club extends it deepest sympathy to Joe’s wife Maitane and three children,
Naia, Aisling and Conor, mother Phil, brothers, sisters and extended family.
Joe’s funeral took place in Kildysart at which members of the junior club
formed a guard of honour.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Simonstown Gaels GAA
Anne Gerrard (Navan)
Anne was the sister of Tony Sheridan, one of the backbones of the great O’Mahonys
side of the 1950s. Tony won senior championship medals in 1953, 57 and 59. He
was also on Feis Cup winning teams in 1955, 57 and 58. Anne’s daughter
June is married to popular referee Gerry McGivney. Their sons have all played
underage with Simonstown.
Catherine Reilly (Navan)
Catherine, predeceased by her husband Jimmy, was a native of Trim and played
a major role in her local Navan Residents Association. Her daughter Jacinta
is married to John Kielty, who is a very prominent member of Navan O’Mahonys.
Lizzie Clarke (Seneschalstown)
Lizzie was the mother of Marian Kelly. Marian and her husband James are long-time
supporters of Seneschalstown. Their son Brian played juvenile football with
the club.
Brigid Seepersad (Ardmulchan, Hayes)
Formerly nee Flood of Wilkinstown, Brigid tragically died following a road accident
in the United States. Her son Desmond played underage football with Seneschalstown.
Kathleen Crosse (Beauparc)
nee Reilly - Kathleen’s son Tommy is a big supporter of Seneschalstown,
Simonstown and Meath GAA. Her grandson Keith is an outstanding underage player
with Simonstown.
Maura Flanagan (Dunboyne)
Maura was a familiar sight on the camogie fields up to her retirement from the
game around 1986, at the remarkable age of 62. Playing in goals, she was a member
of Dunboyne senior camogie teams that won 11 county championships in the 1970s
and early ‘80s.
She also played for Meath and was a member of the county team that won a national
league title in 1970. Towards the end of her career, she lined out alongside
her nieces, Ann and Josephine Gannon, and niece-in-law, Maria.
Originally playing with Ratoath, Maura was responsible for the revival of camogie
in her native Dunboyne in 1966, with help and encouragement from Pat Kelly and
Oliver Brady.
The initial turnout on that first night was an early indication of the determination
and enthusiasm that was to sustain such phenomenal success in the following
decades. Advice and coaching was immediately available from Mick Reilly, Sean
Boylan and Paddy McIntyre senior. The first signs of success appeared in 1969
when the club won the Kilbride Tournament Trophy and a place in the final against
Kilmessan, being beaten by one point.
The following year began a glorious decade for the club, which won the senior
county title annually until 1979, with Maura prominent throughout these years.
At a function in 1975 to mark the club’s success in that year’s championship,
a special presentation was made to Maura for her outstanding contribution to
Dunboyne, Meath, for whom she had played 18 times, and the game of camogie.
She was still playing with Meath the following year when they won a junior league
title.
In fact, she continued to line out for Dunboyne for another decade, retiring
in her early sixties in 1986.
In 2002, along with her neighbour Pat Kelly Maura was presented with Meath GAA’s
Sean Gael award.
Fr. Conal Collier (Dunsany)
Fr. Conal was a member of the Carmelite order and spent 49 years of his life
in Zimbabwe, returning home in August 2007 due to ill health. An outstanding
footballer in his younger days, Fr. Conal celebrated a special open-air mass
on the Dunsany pitch in 1984 to mark the centenary of the GAA.
Nancy Fitzsimons (Trim)
Nancy was the mother of Noel Fitzsimons, a former player with the Trim club.
Grandsons Ronan and Richie Fitzsimons are present stars at both codes for Trim.
Teresa O’Donnell (Trim)
Teresa was the mother of former Trim player David O’Donnell.
Luke Fay (Scurlogstown)
Luke was a former Trim star and the father of another ex-Trim player Willie
Fay.
Jo Goulding (Kerry/Trim)
A native of Kerry, Jo was the mother of former Trim players Hugh, Bill and Michael
Goulding.
All supplied by Trim GAA club.
Kathleen ‘Kitty’ Kavanagh
(Bohermeen)
Kitty was the matriarch of one of the best known and respected families in Bohermeen
parish. Her son Paddy, an intermediate medal winner with Dunderry and Bohermeen,
refereed the All-Ireland senior football final of 1985 which featured Kerry
and Dublin. Another son, Jim was an outstanding footballer, played for Meath,
was also an intermediate medal winner with Bohermeen and was a key figure as
Bohermeen came so close to ousting an emerging Summerhill in the Meath senior
final of 1974. And Kitty’s legacy lives on with Paddy’s son John,
a former Meath underage and junior player, very active in underage football
in the parish.
John Rogers (Boyerstown/Navan)
John was grandson of the legendary Mattie ‘Buller’ Rogers. A big GAA
man, he was a loyal supporter of St. Ultans. His sister Helen Coffey also passed
away during 2008 and is mentioned elsewhere in these columns.
John Philip ‘Phil’ McCartan
(Down/Crossakiel)
Phil and his family arrived from Down 30 years ago to farm in Crossakiel. Related
to the famous McCartan GAA clan, Phil won numerous college awards with Abbey
CBS. His sons wore the Ballinlough jersey with distinction. John, Dan and Charlie
all won Meath senior league division one medals in 1997 and 1999. Dan acted
as a selector for the north Meath club in the year gone, while Charlie, a doctor
based in Donegal, brought an All-Ireland senior medal to the parish in 1998
when his boarding school, St. Colmans of Newry, claimed the Hogan Cup.
Tony Smith (Cortown)
Tony was a member of a family who have provided tremendous service to Cortown
GAA. His brother Colm acted as an intermediate team selector in 2008, while
other brothers Francis and Declan were outstanding footballers with the Bohermeen
parish club.
Mark Mooney (Garristown)
There was widespread sadness following the untimely death of Mark Mooney who
passed away on March 4th 2008. Mark was a very popular young man in the parish
and surrounding area and was a keen follower of sport especially Gaelic football
and horseracing. He was a grandson of our former chairman Tony Battersby. Mark
is sorely missed by everyone who knew him and Curraha GAA Club would like to
express their sympathy with his parents John and Caroline and his brother Stephen.
Christina ‘Chris’ Hamilton (Kilbrew)
Chris, who died in her 100th year, was very well known throughout the parish
and the club extends our sympathy to her family.
Elizabeth ‘Eileen’ Blake
(Ashbourne)
Eileen Blake, who passed away this year, was the mother of Venety who played
for our club. We extend our sympathy to her family.
Jimmy White (Curraha/Ratoath)
There was deep sadness following the untimely death of Jimmy in May of this
year. Jimmy played for our club at juvenile and adult level and we extend our
sympathy to his wife, children, parents and sisters.
Kevin Morgan (Curraha/Ratoath)
Kevin was father of Stephen, one of our current players and we extend our sympathy
to his family.
Peggy Taaffe (Curraha/Ratoath)
Peggy Taaffe was mother of Peter, a former player and we extend our sympathy
to her family.
Nicholas Dowling
(Cushenstown, Navan)
Formerly of Firmount, Cushenstown, Nicholas was a lifelong supporter of the
club and Meath football. The Dowling family have a long association with the
club at playing and committee level and Nicholas' nephews are on the current
teams. The club extends it's sympathy to all Nicholas' family.
Maggie Caffrey (Curraha/Ashbourne)
Her family are long time supporters of the club and her grandson Declan is one
of our current players. To these we extend our sympathy.
Lily Ronan (Ashbourne)
Lily was the mother of former players Mark and Stephen and we extend our sympathy
to her family.
Julia ‘Judy’ Bobbett (Ashbourne)
The Bobbett family are friends and supporters of the club for many years and
Judy’s brother Pat was a member of the 1958 team who reached the Junior
final. The club extends its sympathy to her family.
Contributions above made by Curraha GFC
Edward ‘Bert’ Gough
(Slane)
Bert was immersed in the GAA and never missed an underage Slane, Slane adult
or Meath game. He was involved in the underage section of Slane for nearly 30
years. Bert’s sons Colm, Terry and Eugene all pulled on the Slane jersey.
Colm is a current selector and trainer with the hillside club.
Denis ‘Danny’ Carolan
(Kingscourt/Slane)
Danny hailed from Kingscourt and played senior intercounty for his native Cavan.
A passionate GAA man, he was involved with the underage section of Slane GFC
over a 20-30 year span. Danny’s sons Denis and Stephen continued the legacy.
Denis junior played for the Blues when they were in the senior ranks. Stephen
was an outstanding underage player and represented Meath at minor and under
21 level. Like the aforementioned Bert Gough, Danny never missed an underage
Slane, Meath or Cavan game.
Jack Monaghan (Nobber)
Jack was a former player with Nobber during the 1950s and ‘60s. He was
a member of the Nobber team which went under to Oldcastle in the junior final
of 1956. Jack was a great supporter and member of the Nobber club.
Thomas ‘Tommy’ Casey (Nobber)
Like Jack Monaghan, Tommy was a member of the Nobber team that lost out to Oldcastle
in the junior final of 1956. He was a regular on Nobber teams of the ‘50s
and ‘60s and always retained a strong interest in his native club.
Micheal ‘Mike’ Corrigan
(Athboy)
Mike was a former underage hurler with Kildalkey and was playing junior hurling
with the club at the time of his death. His brother Padraig was captain of the
Kildalkey team which gained Meath junior hurling championship honours during
2008. The win was dedicated to Mike by all the players. He was a loyal club
member and supporter of Kildalkey hurling and football club.
Anne Brennan (Enfield)
Anne was the mother of former Meath attacking ace Tony Brennan. Tony was right
half forward on the Meath team which beat Cork in the 1967 All-Ireland final.
Later on he served as a selector on the great Meath team of the late 1980s,
early 90s. Anne and her late husband Des were central figures in Enfield GAA
for many years during the 1960s and 1970s.
Thomas O’Brien (Drumconrath)
Thomas did not play but was a huge supporter of Syddan and Meath football. He
was a loved member of a famous north Meath footballing dynasty. His brothers
Phil, John and Andy were star Syddan players of the 1940s and ‘50s. The
late John was good enough to play for Meath during the late forties and captained
UCD to Sigerson Cup honours. He also captained the Combined Universities team.
Thomas was an uncle of the McEntees from Nobber, the O’Briens of Ballinlough
and the Rowes from Syddan.
Brian Keelan
(Carnaross)
Brian was one of the best-known personalities in north Meath. A famous faith-healer,
people came from all over the country to visit his Loughan premises. A big GAA
supporter, Brian played for Carnaross during the mid 1940s.
Sean Hall (Dulane)
Sean was a lifelong club member and a big supporter.
Annie Carpenter (Carnaross)
Annie’s son Padraig played underage for the club as does her grandson Stephen
Carpenter.
Mary Yore Roche (Carnaross)
Mary’s son Jack played underage with the club.
William ‘Willie’ Daly
(Dulane)
Willie was a member of the Carnaross team during the 1930s and later played
with the now-defunct Dulane, which operated from the other side of Carnaross
parish.
Carnaross GFC
Oliver Plunkett
(Kilmainhamwood)
Oliver was an outstanding underage footballer with Kilmainhamwood. Later he
progressed to playing junior and intermediate for the ‘Wood during the
late 80s, early 90s.
Aidan Galligan
(Virginia and Oldcastle)
Aidan played on the Oldcastle team during the 1960s and was left full back on
the junior championship winning side of 1966. Part of a great Virginia and Cavan
GAA family, Aidan’s brothers lined out at senior level for the Ulster county.
Aidan’s nephews, the Galligan brothers powered St. Ultans to the Meath
intermediate football championship last October. His son Rory is well known
in the car rallying world. Aidan also acted as secretary of the Oldcastle club.
Kathleen Lynch
(Oldcastle)
Kathleen’s son Philip is a former player with the north-Meath club, while
her grandsons Peter, Tom and Pierce are current players with the Oldcastle under
21 and minor combinations. Kathleen’s granddaughter Bridgetta Lynch is
an outstanding ladies player.
Bridget Donoghue
(Oldcastle and Dublin)
Bridget was a sister of Tommy Donoghue who played on the Oldcastle team which
gained Meath junior championship honours in 1956.
Maureen Tully (Oldcastle)
Maureen’s son, the big-hearted Frankie served Oldcastle loyally for nearly
two decades on the field of play. Her husband Tommy rarely misses an Oldcastle
game and is a big Meath supporter.
Jackie Gilsenan (Oldcastle)
From a well-known Oldcastle family, Jackie’s nephews Paddy and Eoin are
key players with the town intermediate team. Paddy was a vital part of Meath’s
successful minor side of 2008. Jackie has two brothers serving as priests in
Birmingham, Fr. Peter and Fr. Paddy.
May Walters
(Oldcastle and Dublin)
May was the sister of Kevin Halpin, a former player with the Oldcastle club.
Ellen ‘Nell’ Farrelly
(Oldcastle)
Nell was the mother of former Oldcastle player Gerry Farrelly, the well-known
auctioneer who played at all levels for the club.
All information supplied by Oldcastle GFC
Kathleen Kane (Navan)
Kathleen’s sons Jimmy and Padraig played with Bective in the 1980s. Another
son Colm has gained numerous championship medals with Navan O’Mahonys.
Kathleen’s husband Benny is a huge GAA supporter and was a very familiar
face around Pairc Tailteann. He served the old Navan De La Salle club on a number
of committees and remained active in the juvenile section of Navan O’Mahonys.
A number of Kathleen and Benny’s grandchildren wear the Dunderry jersey
with distinction.
Susan Murray (Navan)
Susan’s husband Michael hails from the GAA hotbed of Martry and is a big
Meath supporter. In previous years he regularly acted as a linesman or umpire
at GAA games and was one of the driving forces behind the Navan Carpets team
when the old interfirms competition was active.
Kathleen Garry (Kilskyre)
Kathleen’s son Pat was a promising underage footballer with Ballinlough
and hurler with Kilskyre. A number of her grandsons play with Ballinlough.
Laurence ‘Larry’ O’Reilly
(Kilskyre, Dunboyne and Fordstown)
Larry was one of the older members of a very prominent Kilskyre GAA family.
Before emigrating to Canada 50 years ago, he had lined out at minor and junior
football levels with the Kilskyre club. Larry returned to live in Dunboyne and
his son Gerard O’Reilly developed into an outstanding athlete running for
Ireland in the Olympic Games. He remained an avid GAA and Meath supporter. Sadly
these columns last year carried the obituary of his brother Enda.
Rose Hickey (Kilbride)
Rose was the mother of the late Sean Hickey who played on the great Kilbride
teams of the 1960s and 70s. She was also the mother of other former Kilbride
players Austin and Frank Hickey.