The death has taken place of the brilliant Carbury and Kildare footballer Kevin Kelly.

Part of the legendary Carbury team that dominated Kildare football in the 1970s, Kevin was one of the top forwards of his generation. He won an All-Ireland U21FC medal in 1965 along with fellow Carbury men Ollie Crinnigan (Kildare’s first All-Star), Pat Mangan and Pat Nally before going on to excel at senior level. But despite having an exceptional crop of players at the time, including Tommy Carew and Pat Dunny, major honours eluded Kildare and Kelly.

After moving to Athlone, Kelly won three more county SFC medals and remained actively involved with his adopted club long after hanging up his boots.

"Kevin was a noted and skilful player with Athlone in the 1970s and early '80s and won three Westmeath Senior Championship medals to add to the six Championships he won with his home club Carbury in his native Kildare," Athlone GAA posted online.

"Kevin also won an All-Ireland U21 medal with Kildare in what was a glittering playing career. After his retirement from playing, Kevin continued to be actively involved and coached several Athlone underage teams, as well as serving as minor board chairman, while his children also represented our club with distinction.”

Carbury GAA also paid tribute, saying: “It was with deep sadness and much regret that we learned of the passing of Kevin Kelly, Athlone and formerly Carbury. One of Carbury’s and Kildare’s finest footballers to ever grace the playing fields.

“On behalf of the chairman and all in the GAA community, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to Kevin’s wife Marie, daughter Sharon, sons Raymond, Kevin and Alan and extended families. We also offer our condolences to Kevin’s sisters Kate and Ollie and to all the Kelly family.

“May Kevin’s gentle soul forever rest peacefully.”

Tweet

Most Read Stories