The funeral of 44-year-old Coley Folan took place on Friday at the Sacred Heart and Holy Souls Church in Birmingham. Colman 'Coley' Folan was a senior GAA team manager at Sam McDermott's Gaelic Football Club in Birmingham.
Mr Folan was described as a cherished husband to wife Deirdre, a devoted dad to son Cianan and daughter Ailish, beloved only son to Thomas and Mary and worshiped brother to Sally and Mary. Teammates and friends paid tribute to Mr Foley as a talented footballer and described him as an inspiration to younger players.
In an obituary, the family spoke of their 'deep shock' at his sudden death before writing 'Good night and God bless' in both English and Irish.

The church was full to capacity with mourners spilling out on to the steps to hear the service conducted by Reverend Father David Tarns. Readings were given by Barbara Ann Folan, Ailish and Gerry Folan and Noel McLean Senior. One member of the congregation described the impact Mr Folan had on the local community, saying he had worked with and made a difference in the lives of numerous young people. The committee of Sean McDermott's posted a notice on their website speaking of their deep regret at his passing.
After an emotional service players from Sean McDermott's GAA club, dressed in the team colours of green and white, formed a guard of honour with arms linked while Mr Folan's coffin was carried from the church.
After the requiem mass, a horse-drawn funeral procession with a livery in Sean McDermott and Galway colours transported the coffin,

Mr Folan, originally from Connemara, was later buried at Widney Manor Cemetery in Solihull.

Courtesy of The Irish Post Tweet

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