The Late Jim Henry The local GAA world is in mourning following the death of one of North Roscommon's greatest ever servants. Jim Henry, who served as St. Michael's secretary for nearly 50 years and was the current treasurer of the Northern GAA Board, passed away. Many tributes have been paid to the Cootehall publican and shop owner who was affectionately known as "Mr St Michael's". He served as secretary of his native club for 47 years and was assistant secretary for three years. He has been actively involved with the Northern Board since 1984. The late Jim Henry was a well-known face at County Board meetings in Roscommon and represented St Michael's at numerous conventions. His loyalty to his club and Roscommon football made him one of the most popular GAA figures within the county. He was secretary of St. Michael's in 1973 during the club's finest hour when and intermediate football championship title was won. One the club's most ambitious projects over the past decade was the redevelopment of Ardcarne Park in 1996, one of Jim's most memorable moments as secretary. A man who always put players' welfare to the forefront during his time as secretary, he was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by his club at the annual St. Michael's dinner dance two years ago. He was also involved with underage teams and Scor down through the years. On behalf of Roscommon County Board, Acting Chairman Michael McGuire said that Jim Henry's loss would be felt in every corner of County Roscommon. "From day one when I became involved in Roscommon GAA, Jim Henry was a household name. I quickly became aware that he was an important figure in the county. "Himself and Paddy Mulvey worked together for years and years. I shudder to think the amount of service they have given to the GAA between them. They organised the fixtures and finances of the Northern Board over a lifetime. They did a fantastic job at the time. "A huge portion of Jim's life went into the GAA. He always managed to have a word with everybody, even though he was so busy. His name obviously became synonymous with St Michael's but many people just visited him in Cootehall for a chat. He was always a man you could turn to in a crisis. "He was an absolute gentleman. Everyone will remember him as a friend. He was that kind of man. Apart from his own club, he'll be sorely missed by everyone. He was a tremendous GAA man," he explained. St. Michael's Club Chairman Anthony Dowd said Jim Henry's contribution to GAA affairs in his locality and beyond was very unique. "He was extremely proud of the club's underage success down through the years. Apart from being an incredible GAA man, he was also a great friend and neighbour. He was known in every corner around Ireland," he said. The late Jim Henry is survived by his brother Michael, sister Chris, nephews, nieces and a wide circle of family and friends. Courtesy of the Roscommon Herald 14th September 2005 Tweet

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