"A modest yet iconic leader" - Derry GAA pay tribute to the late Jim McKeever
April 07, 2023
The late Jim McKeever
Derry GAA has led the tributes to the late great Jim McKeever who passed away yesterday at the age of 92.
A native of Ballymaguigan, Jim led Derry to its first All-Ireland SFC final appearance in 1958 when the Oak Leaf County lost out to Dublin at Croke Park.
Jim would be named the inaugural Texaco Footballer of the Year for his performances in the Derry colours that season and he’d also earn three Railway Cup medals with Ulster between 1948 and 1962.
Later years would see him managing Derry’s senior footballers and go on to serve as county board chairman.
"Derry GAA are saddened to learn of the death of former Derry player, manager and county chairman, Jim McKeever,” a statement from the county board read.
"A proud Derry and Ballymaguigan player, Jim was a modest yet iconic leader.
"Jim McKeever was a natural sportsman, representing Ulster with distinction in both Gaelic football and basketball. He was the inaugural Gaelic Footballer of the Year for 1958.
"Whether as an educator or as a midfielder he led by example. Jim actively encouraged people to use their talents and be the best they could be. Any team with Jim McKeever in it was a better team.
"Jim had a natural warmth and innate kindness which meant people gravitated towards him. He was affectionately known across Ireland as Gentleman Jim.
"When Jim spoke people listened because they appreciated he was a man of immense experience and integrity.
"Jim's life was one of service to others. Jim realised whether in his club, community or county he was part of something bigger as part of the GAA.
"Jim McKeever was a once in a generation figure and has left an indelible mark on the history of Derry GAA.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time."
Jim McKeever was a once in a generation figure and has left an indelible mark on the history of Derry GAA…https://t.co/YxOKXjFff2
— Derry GAA (@Doiregaa) April 6, 2023
TweetIn his own words…
— Derry GAA (@Doiregaa) April 6, 2023
LISTEN as the late Jim McKeever recounts the arrival of the GAA in Derry and reflects on his career in the red and white 🇦🇹 pic.twitter.com/iGK3K1Zeox
