Late John Murray The passing of John Murray of Ballydermody, Fenor and formerly of Ballycroddick, Dunhill was received with widespread regret by his family, many friends and neighbours. Anyone coming in contact with John in any capacity were impressed by his sincerity and quiet disposition. He kept a low profile, his presence was hardly noticed. It was regarded as one of the tragedies of the locality when the onset of serious illness robbed society of his skill and the influence of a dedicated family man. John was the epitome of the ideal, husband and father, a skilled craftsman and seen only when the community requires his skill for some parochial endeavour. He was a man for all seasons. When still in his prime burdened with the kind of cross that seems to be the lot of few in number he took up that cross with the same courage, dignity and grace that marked his performance in his activities at work and at play. John's constant care was provided by his wife Ann, supported by his children David, Deridre and Brian, he was surrounded by exceptional love. This care was further complimented by his mother, brothers and sisters and the extended Murray and Keegan families with special attention from his uncle Jimmy. John responded positively which was his nature, dwelling not on his infirmities but counting his blessings. The old proverb "Love conquers all" was very much evident. This is not available under doctor's prescription but can be provided by families that are special. John made his impact in his early years having earned his place on the star studded Dunhill senior football and hurling teams of the sixties, seventies and early eighties beginning as a sixteen year old boy. Somewhat light of stature, an athlete supreme the lightness of foot and grace with which he moved left his opponents standing in his wake. His contribution to the Dunhill success's of the period could not be over valued for he was a team player ever ready to share possession with his team mates. At the age of twenty one he had won under age county honours at every grade in hurling and football. He went on to win senior hurling and football county titles with Dunhill in the seventies. In his early years he competed with the Dunhill Athletic Club and won county titles at under age. He was a valued performer in Scor with the Dunhill set dancers. John Murray had fitted a lot of positive living into his relative short life. The attendance at the removal to Fenor church on Tuesday 5 October and the over flowing Church at his Requiem Mass on Wednesday 6 October, Con Celebrated by Father's Enright, Condon and Burns was testimony to the impact he had made in the Parishes of Dunhill and Fenor where he will be long remembered perhaps as much for his gentle disposition as for his many fine achievements in other areas. Sincere sympathy is extended to his wife Ann, daughter Deirdre, sons David and Brian, mother Peggy, mother- in-law, Nan, sisters, Mary, Katherine, Esther, Breda, Ann and Carmel, brothers, Pat, Martin, Joe, Paul and Kieran and the extended Murray and Keegan families. Courtesy of the Waterford News & Star, November 2004. Tweet

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