Douglas, Matt
November 12, 2008
The death took place on Saturday November 1 2008 of Mr Matt Douglas, Clyduff, Roscrea. News of his passing was received with much regret and sadness as he was a much loved and popular member of the local community. He had been in failing health for a considerable length of time. This illness he bore with great fortitude and courage. He had two great loves in life, hurling and fishing so it was very fitting that before he funeral Mass on Monday morning, a hurly and fishing rod were brought to the altar.
Matt was an avid GAA fan and during the 70s and 80s, he followed the fortunes of Offaly footballers and hurlers and he travelled to Croke Park Sunday after Sunday to see them play and take his place on the canal end. He nearly always travelled alone. In his younger days he playing hurling in Dublin and when he returned home he played for the local club Ballyskenach and wore the blue jersey with great distinction. Ballyskenach contested 1976 junior hurling final and after a very exciting game were narrowly beaten by Shinrone. They were back in 1977 and won the junior title by beating St Saran's and Matt was a member of that team. In 1979 Ballyskenach won their first intermediate title when they beat Killoughey in the final, here once more Matt played his part. He was very proud of those two Offaly hurling championship medals and in recent years he still took a keen interest in the club. Matt you will be greatly missed.
Removal took place on Sunday evening from Maher's Funeral Home, Roscrea to St. Mary's Church, Dunkerrin. His former team mates provided a guard of honour and his coffin was covered with the club colours of that time which was blue. The funeral mass took place in Dunkerrin Church on Monday morning which the chief celebrant was Rev. Fr Pat Mulcahy, PP Dunkerrin, along with Rev. Fr Frank Meehan, PP, Shinrone, Rev. Fr Michael Harding, CC Roscrea and Rev Fr Gabriel, Mount Saint Joseph's Abbey, Roscrea. Interment took place in Dunkerrin, New Cemetery. "Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis."
Smypathy is extended to his brothers Oliver and Tom, sisters-in-law Chrissie and Ester, niece Olivia, nephews John, Tony and Oliver, aunts, uncles, relatives and friends.
- Leinster Express 12th November 2008
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