Dennigan, Jimmy
January 03, 2013The death of Fermoy man Jimmy Dennigan is being widely mourned this week, not least by Fermoy GAA Club to which he gave a lifetime's sterling service, writes Ellen Lynch. The former All-Ireland football final referee and GAA clubman, passed away on New Year's Eve at St Patrick's Community Hospital. He had been ill for some time and was aged 73.
Jimmy, from Sierra, Ballymona, Fermoy, is mourned by his wife Kathleen (nee Clancy), his daughters Siobhan Maher, Sharon Maher and Colette Swift, son John, brothers Kieran and George, sister Joan Howard, sons-in-law Dickie and Pat, daughter-in-law Deirdre and grandchildren, extended family and a wide circle of friends including his many GAA colleagues. Brendan Keane, Fermoy GAA Club chairman said club members were very sad to hear of his passing. "He was a great member who gave a lifetime's service to the club, he really contributed to all aspects" he said, adding "He'll be sadly missed by club members."
Jimmy's involvement with Fermoy GAA Club goes back to his playing days when he played both hurling and football. He went on to become a very active juvenile and adult coach. He was known in wider GAA circles from his time as a North Cork and inter-county referee and ultimately his stint as an All-Ireland referee. He refereed nine county football matches in a row as well as the All-Ireland football final between Kerry and Tyrone in 1985, the same year Fermoy GAA Club celebrated its centenary.
Jimmy was also an avid greyhound racing fan who spent many enjoyable evenings at Youghal greyhound track. He had a keen interest in coursing too and was a member of the local coursing club. The removal was scheduled to take place on Wednesday night to St. Patrick's Church, Fermoy with requiem Mass to be celebrated this afternoon (Thursday, January 3rd) at 2pm followed by burial at Kilcrumper New Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, mourners were asked to give donations to the community hospital where Jimmy had been cared for during his illness, if so desired.
To his sorrowing wife and family, we extend our deepest sympathy.
Courtesy of The Avondhu. Tweet
