County mourns young GAA star Roscommon's GAA fraternity are in mourning following the death of one of the county's brightest young GAA stars. John Horan died tragically and his passing has been met with an incalculable sense of shock and grief around the county, especially in his native Elphin. Twenty-one year old John represented Roscommon at minor and Under-16 level while he was also involved with the county's Under-21 panel. However, his contribution to everything positive about Elphin GAA will be forever remembered and cherished. He was part of the club's intermediate side that captured county honours in 2003 and he played an integral part in the club's historic win over Cortoon Shamrocks in the final of the inaugural Connacht Intermediate Club championship. However, his contribution to Elphin's cause in 2004 best summed up John's attitude, skill and talent. As Elphin struggled to find their feet at senior level in the early stages of this year's championship. John represented a burning ray of hope which culminated in an incredible contribution of 2-5 to his club's cause against St. Faithleach's. It was, without doubt, the finest individual display of this year's senior football championship. As family, friends and GAA colleagues tried to come to terms with his loss this week, Elphin Club Chairman Peter Scott said that John's death was a massive blow to the whole community and beyond. "His contribution to the club this year best summed him up. He was one of the most gifted footballers ever to wear the club jersey. He will be missed by his numerous friends throughout every club in the county. He was such a popular young man, " he commented The late John is survived by his parents Jimmy and Genevieve, brothers Ray and Derek, sister Lorraine, grandmother, aunts, uncles, niece, cousins, relatives, neighbours and his many friends. Hundreds of mourners attended his removal to St. Patrick's Church, Elphin and his Funeral Mass. As Deis Dé go raibh a anaim dilis. Courtesy of the Roscommon Herald, October 2004. Tweet

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