Death of Hon. President of Ballina GAA Tommy O'Brien, Roulagh, Ballina passed to his eternal reward at Ashlawn Nursing Home, Carrigatogher, on Friday August 24th. Born in Tuamgraney in 1922, Tommy lived in Killaloe for a few years after his marriage to local lady, Betty O'Sullivan, Creevroe where they both ran a Public House on New Street. Hon. President of Ballina GAA Club, Tommy gave a lifetime of service to the GAA. He featured on the Smith O'Brien teams of the 40's and 50's and on moving to Ballina some forty-seven years ago, served the club as player, selector and chairman, a position he held for seventeen years. He was also deeply involved in Club Fundraising during the 'Carnival and Marquee' era. Over the past few years as Tommy's health deteriorated, he deeply regretted his inability to take his place on the sideline during Ballina/Tipperary/Clare matches, a position he occupied for over fifty years. Tommy was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, friend and his passing is deeply mourned by his loved ones. Large crowds of sympathisers paid their last respects to Tommy at Ashlawn Nursing Home and Ballina Parish Church. Past and present members of the GAA Club formed Guards of Honour at Obsequies. Requiem Mass con-celebrated by Fr. Ted O'Rahelly and Fr. Ted O'Rahelly and Fr. Enda Brady was followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. We extend sincere sympathy to Tommy's wife Betty, to his daughters, Siobhan and Noreen; to his son Tomas; his grandchildren, Kieran, Shane, Dylan and Corey; to his siblings Maura, Mattie, Flan and Liam, extended family, relatives and friends. Tweet

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