The end of another year ... and time to remember friends and family members who crossed over the great divide. The following is a list of obituaries taken from our Meath GAA Yearbook, Royal County. Great people who passed away in 2013.

We did our best to include everybody, and depended on the clubs for data. Deepest sympathy to all concerned.

Matt Gilsenan (Moynalty)
Matt Gilsenan, the Grand Old Man of Meath GAA, passed to his eternal reward last April. We attempt to include some of the deeds, and there were many, of this great Moynalty hero within the columns of our publication. To do so we revert back to an interview carried out by Royal County Yearbook in 2007. It is titled 'The Great Mattie Gilsenan'.
It was 1939, with World War Two blazing across Europe and the Maginot Line demonstrating its vulnerability. Franklin D. Roosevelt was half-way through his spell as US President, Pius XII was Pope, Eamon De Valera was Taoiseach and a great man from north Meath captained his beloved county in the All-Ireland SFC final.
Some 68 years later that same great man is as fit and well as it is surely possible to be at the age of 92 and talking to him in his Moynalty home makes you appreciate how remarkably fresh he looks and how alert his mind still is as he recalls so many great days playing football for club, county and province.
Mattie Gilsenan scored a fabulous goal in that '39 decider against a star-studded Kerry team at Croke Park, but it wasn't enough as the hotly fancied and immensely talented Munster champions won by 2-5 to 2-3 to deprive Meath of their first title in the premier grade.
It had been 44 years since the Royal County had previously contested a final and the weight of history was firmly against them as they went into battle against a county that had already claimed the most coveted prize in Gaelic football on a dozen occasions.
But Meath gave a tremendous account of themselves against a Kerry team that contained such magnificent players as Danno Keeffe, Joe Keohane, Dan Spring and Paddy Kennedy and which went on to retain the All-Ireland title in the following two years.
Mattie had played for the Meath minors in 1933 and made his senior inter-county debut in the Leinster Championship match against Westmeath at Kells in 1935 when the home county won by four points, before bowing out of the title race with a single point loss to Louth at Croke Park three weeks later. He held his place for 11 years and normally lined out at right half-forward, with the occasional positioning on the 'forty'.
He was very much part of the action as Meath claimed only their second Leinster title in '39 when they beat Wexford by four points in the final and again the following year when they got the better of Laois by three points to retain the provincial crown. That was the day that the great Peter McDermott won the first of his six Leinster SFC medals.
However, leading your county in an All-Ireland senior final has to be the high point of a player's career and it was a proud moment for the Moynalty man as he lined out alongside the likes of Tommy 'Boiler' McGuinness, Tony Donnelly, Ted Meade and Jim Kearney before 46,828 spectators at Croke Park on 24th September, 1939.
Meath, who had earlier lost the National League final to Mayo, pushed Kerry all the way and were considered quite unfortunate not to win. They were on level terms at the interval, thanks largely to the brilliant goal scored by Mattie which gained rich praise in one of the newspaper reports of the match the following day. Judging by this grand assessment, it must have been some score.
"The Meath captain was in sparkling form and his goal was not only the best of the match, but the best of the season and one of the best in the records of the GAA," it stated in glowing terms. "The movement that led up to it was delightful. Gilsenan started the movement and the ball was handled by Joe Loughran, Tony Donnelly and Jack Cummins. The latter centred a low ball for Gilsenan who had crossed to the far wing in support to tap the ball down to toe and send in a first class drive which O'Keeffe, the Kerry custodian, did not see until the ball shook the net."
It was clearly a spectacular goal, but it was Kerry who just about did enough in the second half to shade the verdict by a couple of points. Sadly, Mattie is now the only surviving member of the Meath team that started the final that day.
Galway ended Meath's dream of a second successive All-Ireland final appearance the following year when eliminating them at the semi-final stage and they in turn were beaten by the Kingdom in the decider - the first of three successive defeats at the last hurdle for the Connacht men.
However, 1940 was a particularly successful year for Mattie because, apart from winning his second Leinster SFC medal, he became the first Meath player to captain Leinster in the Railway Cup and led them to a final victory over a Munster team that was packed with many of the Kerry players who had deprived the Royal County of All-Ireland glory the previous September.
The other Meath players on the Leinster starting 15 were Tony Donnelly and Jim Kearney (brother of Mattie's wife Eileen) and that was one of three Railway Cup medals which Mattie won during a magnificent career.
The highlight of his club playing career was winning a Senior Championship medal with St. Mary's - a combination of Moynalty and Kilbeg - in 1937. They caused a shock by defeating the powerful Navan Gaels team in that championship. The town side won nine senior titles in the 15-year period between 1924 and '38, so beating them represented a great achievement. He also picked up an Intermediate Championship medal in 1936, as well as some Feis Cup medals.
If his career as a player was impressive, even though it didn't bring the ultimate reward in the shape of an All-Ireland medal, his contribution as a Royal County selector was absolutely extraordinary. Apart from being captain in 1939, he had the added responsibility of being a selector, a position he also held the following year when Meath again won the Leinster title.
And how about this for a truly amazing statistic - he was actually a selector on 11 Meath teams that won senior provincial titles. Apart from '39 and '40, there was also '47, '49, '51, '52, '54, '64, '66, '67 and '70. And, of course, Meath went on to claim the Sam Maguire Cup in three of those years - '49, '54 and '67. That is some record of service and some record of success.
Mattie had subsequent spells as a county selector and was part of Sean Boylan's set-up in the early stages of his long tenure as Meath manager, which clearly demonstrated the extent of the respect the man from Dunboyne had for him - above all a respect and admiration for his great knowledge of the game.
He has retained a tremendous passion for football throughout his life and must surely hold some sort of record for the number of club matches he has attended at various venues around the county over the years. Indeed, he is still going to games and loves his football as much as ever, maintaining a keen interest in the local club scene and the various Meath teams.
Mattie, who attended his first All-Ireland final the best part of 80 years ago in 1928 when Bill 'Squires' Gannon led Kildare to their second successive title with a one-point victory over Cavan, looks back with tremendous clarity at a magnificent playing career that was surely highlighted by the 1939 All-Ireland final appearance.
"It was marvellous to play in an All-Ireland final, though I suppose when you are young you don't think much about it," he said. "We were just beaten by a great Kerry team that had players like Paddy Kennedy, Joe Keohane, Eddie Walsh and Dan Spring. They were great players, honest players.
"It was the first time Meath contested a final as a county team. We had a lot of talented players at that time. Jim Kearney was the only member of the 1939 team to still be there in 1949 when Meath made the breakthrough.
"Collective training took place at Randalstown for about three weeks before the All-Ireland final. We had won some games in the Leinster Championship before serious training started. We had beaten Laois in the first round at Mullingar and Kildare in the semi-final at Drogheda, before beating Wexford in the final at Croke Park.
"Cavan were very good, but we beat them in the All-Ireland semi-final and then ran Kerry to two points in the final. Of course, they were very different times then and we enjoyed it all. Fellas were easier pleased in those days. It's a real rat race now."
Mattie can vividly recall the day he made his debut appearance for the Meath seniors - over seven decades ago.
"I can remember it as if it was yesterday," he added. "It was on a Church holiday in May, 1935 and it was a lovely day. We played Westmeath in Kells and I was at right half-forward. That was 72 years ago."
Leading his province to Railway Cup honours was another of the big highlights during Mattie's playing days.
"I captained Leinster when we won the Railway Cup in 1940," he said. "We beat Munster in the final. That was a big thrill. The Railway Cup was a big thing then and attracted huge crowds, over 40,000 as far as I can recall. It was a really great competition."
Having lined out for his county for 11 years, he obviously played with and against some great footballers, including his Meath colleagues in 1939 and the Kerry team that deprived them of a first All-Ireland senior title. They were clearly tremendous teams packed with fabulous players.
"I played with some really great footballers during my years with Meath, including Tony Donnelly who was a truly wonderful player," he recalled. "Others included Bill Shaw, Mattie Rogers, Joe Loughran, Ted Meade and Dick Cassidy from Kilbeg.
"Paddy Kennedy of Kerry was a brilliant midfielder, a really great footballer. Eddie Boyle from Louth was a great full-back and Tommy Murphy of Laois was another fabulous footballer."
Mattie played with some fine footballers at club level too and that 1937 Senior Championship success for the Moynalty-Kilbeg combination, St. Mary's, is still recalled fondly some 70 years later.
"We had a very good team then and beat Navan Gaels in that championship in '37," he said. "They were very strong and very successful. It meant a lot for the area here to win it. Sadly, they are all dead except for myself. We had also won the Intermediate Championship in 1936, so they were a great couple of years for us."
Mattie was part of Sean Boylan's selection team in the early stages of his long spell as Meath senior manager and he is full of admiration for the man who helped bring so much success to the county after many barren years when the Royal County supporters couldn't have even dreamt of the remarkable transformation that lay ahead.
He is fully aware of the massive part the immensely popular man from Dunboyne played in that transformation and is fulsome in his praise for the former county manager.
"Sean is one of nature's gentlemen," Mattie said. "You never hear a cross word from him; never a rough word. He is a great man and was a wonderful addition for Meath football. He did a huge amount for it and was so successful. He is a brilliant man who has made friends all over the country."
Now into his 90s, Mattie is still working away on the farm, driving his car, staying active and attending football matches on a regular basis. And why wouldn't he when the great game has been such an integral part of his life over so many years.
"I was out counting cattle in Carlanstown this morning," he added as the rain pelted down outside on a miserable day. "I have been lucky. That said, I never drank and never smoked. I have kept active all my life. It's great to be able to be active. It gives you independence. A farmer running after livestock tends to keep fit!
"And I am still going to games and was in Croke Park for Meath's Leinster Championship matches against Kildare and Dublin this year. What a great place Croke Park is now, with wonderful changes from my time playing there.
"I can remember the Cusack Stand being built in 1937 and I remember it being demolished as well. I was in Croke Park for the 1928 All-Ireland final when Kildare beat Cavan and Squires Gannon was the first man to receive the Sam Maguire Cup. I saw it being presented for the last time, to Mick Lyons in 1987, and the new one being presented to Joe Cassells in 1988. I saw them all."
And, having seen Meath in action several times during 2007, how does he assess the county's prospects for the future?
"I would be hopeful," he said. "The young lads look promising and that is important."
Mattie Gilsenan's record as a player and also as a selector of Meath teams is one of the truly remarkable stories in the proud history of Meath Gaelic Games. Chatting to him about it all so many years later was fascinating and enlightening, helped in no small way by his wonderful memory.

Joe (Josie) Davy (Enfield)
There was shock and sadness at the news that Joe passed away. He was well known to all Na Fianna followers and was a big supporter of the club, as well as the county. He was immensely proud when Na Fianna captured the 2012 Meath IFC title and gained senior status.
Joe was a talented player with the old Enfield club and played alongside his brother Bill (RIP). He also coached underage teams in the now defunct Clan na Gael club. His sons, Kenny and William, played with both Clan na Gael and Na Fianna. Joe's passing leaves a huge void in the Enfield area and his knowledge, wit and kindness is sorely missed by all.

Eoin Murray
(Leixlip and Melbourne)
The death occurred of Eoin, who was originally from Leixlip, Co Kildare, in Melbourne. Eoin's father Stephen is a dedicated Na Fianna clubman who currently holds the role of Juvenile co-ordinator. Na Fianna CLG would like to express their condolences to Eoin's family and friends on their tragic loss.

Bill Daly (Enfield)
Bill was a talented footballer and played with Enfield, Kilmainhamwood, Nobber and Kingscourt. He worked with CIE for almost 40 years until he retired in April 1982 at the age of 65. Bill was involved with the railway in Enfield for a number of years before being transferred to the Kilmainhamwood area.
It was during his time around north County Meath that he met Elizabeth (Betty) Carolan whom he married in May 1964. Bill was one of the 'Nobber men of 1946', when Nobber won their first Junior Championship, although the match was not played until April 1947. He was part of that team, and often cycled from Nobber to Enfield and back again on a 66 miles round trip.
Bill was the last surviving member of the old Enfield football team from the 1940s. Up until recent years he would travel to Croke Park to support the Meath senior footballers.

Peter Reynolds
Peter's brother Jim and Matt played with the Baconstown club while Matt's daughter Claire currently plays camogie for Na Fianna.

Kathleen Dixon
Kathleen's daughter Mandy played senior camogie and football with Na Fianna while son Marty hurls with the south Meath club. Kathleen's grandchildren also play underage hurling and football.
(Thanks to Brian Queeney of Na Fianna GAA club for submitting the above obituaries)

Larry Daly (Trim)
Larry was a founding member of Boardsmill hurling club along with his brother Paul and a few neighbours that included Pat Morgan, Pat Fay and Joe Darby. During his sporting years Larry won many medals and cups including a Junior Hurling Championship medal in 1947.
His big love was athletics and he was a founding member of Trim Athletic Club. His most treasured possession was a runner's up medal team which he obtained in an All-Ireland cross-country race. This was with the Stoneyford Club and the winning team that day included the great JJ Barry or the 'Ballinacurry Hare' as he became known.
In 1972, Larry formed the Trim AC BLE and acted as treasurer for 15 years. He was also founder of the Community Games in Trim and Boardsmill and President of the Meath County Board AC BLE for a further 15 years. Today the Larry Daly Cup is awarded to the winners of the Meath Senior Cross-Country Championships.
An Honorary President of the Royal Meath Show and Boardsmill HC, Larry was the recipient of a Sean Gael Award from Meath County Board.

Peter McLoughlin (Longwood)
Peter's sudden death came as a shock to members of Boardsmill hurling club. He played for many years with the 'Mill, winning numerous underage and adult championships. He had a keen interest in everything that went on in the club and three of his sons were members of the senior hurling team this year.
His daughters also played camogie with Boardsmill. Outside of hurling, Peter Daly's great interest and love was dogs and he enjoyed many successes. He was also a popular card player.
To the Daly and McLoughlin families we extend our deepest sympathies.
(Thanks to secretary Caroline Loughran and Boardsmill GAA club)

Tony Stapleton (Navan)
Tony was a great supporter of Navan O'Mahonys and Meath GAA but was best known for his role as chairman of the Fianna Fail constituency organisation, the Meath Fianna Fail Comhairle Dail Cheantair, for 20 years. He was director of elections for all of former MEP, Jim Fitzsimons' European Parliament and Dail election campaigns.

Charlie O'Brien
(Drumree and Navan)
The unexpected death of Charlie was the source of widespread shock and sadness across the county. A native of Drumree, his son Gary has represented Navan O'Mahonys and Meath with distinction in recent years. A mine captain at Tara Mines, Charlie was involved in Dunshaughlin Athletics club.

Josie Duignan (Navan)
Josie's late husband Jim was, along with his brothers, a founding member of Navan O'Mahonys in 1948. Her son Eamonn played with the Brews Hill club.

Tom Brady (Navan)
Tom's son John ('Bod') was a substitute on the Meath team that captured All-Ireland SFC glory following the replayed final victory over Mayo in 1996. John was also full back on the Royal County minor side that defeated Armagh in the 1992 All-Ireland MFC final and won a SFC medal with O'Mahonys in 1997.
Another son, Anthony, played with Bective. A native of Clones, Tom was a loyal supporter of Meath and sent many match programmes to John who currently lives in Australia. Tom's son-in-law, Declan McCabe, is the current Summerhill senior football team manager.

Bridie Kerrane (Navan)
Bridie's husband Liam is well-known in Meath GAA circles and is the current head steward at Pairc Tailteann. A prominent Navan O'Mahonys member, Liam is a former vice-chairman of the Hurling Board. A minute's silence was observed in Bridie's memory prior to the IFC final between Gaeil Colmcille and Clann na nGael.
(Thanks to Michael Bennett and Navan O'Mahonys GAA club)

Kevin Honan
A native of Kildare, Kevin's grandson Colm Honan is goalkeeper on the Navan O'Mahonys minor and Under 21 football teams.

Meta Geraghty
A loyal Navan O'Mahonys supporter, Meta's late husband Michael was a former club secretary while her son Donnchadh was successfully involved at underage level in Dunshaughlin GAA club during recent years.

Mark O'Callaghan
Mark was a great supporter of Navan O'Mahonys and attended the weekly bingo in the club.

Jimmy Power
Jimmy's sons and grandsons played for Navan O'Mahonys.

Noel Matthews
A member of a well-known Navan O'Mahonys GAA family, Noel was a full-back of renown with the Starlights club in Wexford. A member of An Garda Siochana, the Navan native arrived in Enniscorthy in the mid-60's and it wasn't long after when he became a regular with the famous Enniscorthy club.
He was also a top referee in the seventies and officiated at numerous county finals in his adopted county, including both senior finals in 1974. Growing up in Navan, he won football and hurling medals with Navan O'Mahonys. His two sons, Colm and Paul, were outstanding dual players.
Noel served as both chairman and secretary of the Enniscorthy District in the seventies and also played hurling with St Aidan's and the Shamrocks during his playing days.
A brother of O'Mahonys members Peter and Paul, Noel was an uncle of current corner-back Ian Matthews while Meath Chronicle Sports reporter Fergal Lynch was also a nephew.

Paddy Cunningham
Only answered to the name of Dinky. A true gentlemen and one of the most popular men in Navan, a fact backed up by the huge crowds who attended his funeral. Dinky had a clear, distinctive voice that would not have sounded out of place were it transmitting the RTE news to the nation. A lover of all sports Dinky Cunningham always kept an eye on how the Meath team were progressing. Gone but never forgotten.

Tommy Rogers
A soccer player of note with Parkvilla, Tommy was a former underage player with Navan O'Mahonys while his brothers Martin and Anthony both played senior football for the Brews Hill club. His nephew Diarmuid Rogers (Anthony's son) is a regular on the club's senior hurling team. Tommy was married to Bernadette Cosgrave, a member of a well known Dunderry family, while his brother-in-law, Davy Nelson, is the current O'Mahonys senior football manager.
(Thanks to Michael Bennett and Navan O'Mahonys GAA club)

Kieran O'Farrell (Kilbride)
Kieran was an Honorary President of the Kilbride club at the time of his passing and his sons Bosco and Liam represented the club during the 1980s.

Betty Colfer (Kilbride)
Betty was predeceased by her husband David who was a former vice-chairman of Kilbride GFC. Her grandsons Paddy, Keith and Cormac O'Neill are former and current players with Kilbride. Betty was heavily involved in the local community, sitting on school and parochial committees for many years, and was a long time member of Kilbride ICA. In later years, she was involved in Ratoath and Ashbourne Active Aged Groups.

Pat Sullivan (Kilbride)
Pat was a member of the famed Kilbride squad of the 1960s and his brother Owen captained the club to Meath IFC success in 1962.

Johnny Farrell (Clonee)
Johnny was a brother of well-known Kilbride official Patsy who is also heavily involved in the Meath GAA Supporters club - Club na Mi.
(Thanks to Eamonn McGovern and Kilbride GAA club)

Ted Murtagh - (Trim)
An appreciation
There have been many accolades paid to Ted Murtagh since his death on the Tuesday 18th June 2013.  Now it is fitting that our club also pay tribute to a man whom we regard as one of the most outstanding persons that we ever had amongst us.
We have had many great personalities over the generations, in our 117 years of existence, but a few stand out from the crowd and hold the title of club legends. We think of men like Paddy Yore, Mick Leonard, Ollie O'Reilly et al.  Ted Murtagh certainly was befitting of this title of "a club legend".
Ted came to Trim in 1951 as a 16 year old to work in Leonard's Drapery shop at Athboy Gate.  Having been brought up in the Westmeath hurling hotbeds of Collinstown and Rickardstown he already had the GAA bug. Ted immediately became involved with the Trim club and the following year was a member of the hurling team that won the Meath Minor hurling championship. 
He won a Feis Cup hurling medal with his adopted club in 1954.  He switched back to his native club Rickardstown in 1959 and was a member of their senior hurling team that won the Westmeath championship.  The legendary Jobber McGrath was the undoubted star of their team at the time. 
Ted was privileged to play alongside the Jobber who was a star of Westmeath and Leinster hurling and was known throughout the length and breadth of Ireland.  Ted used to cycle the 20 miles from Trim back home to North Westmeath to play games with his club.  Such was his then passion for the game of hurling.
Shortly thereafter he returned his allegiance to the Trim club as he settled here by virtue of making many new found friends and having a successful career in the drapery business.    One of these great friends was to become his lifelong partner as he met and married Ann, a local Trim girl, in 1963.
Anne's father John McGee was a popular Trim GAA personality in the 1920s, 30's and 40's and was a well-known photographer of events and matches in the area.  In recent years Ann helped set up and run the Trim Active Retirement Group and along with Ted they formed a formidable partnership in continuing to run this great organisation for the elderly.
As a young man here in Trim, Ted continued to play junior and senior hurling for the club again and was a regular participant in the successful street leagues during the 1950s.  Occasionally he played football but admitted that he was too small to play at senior level "I only weighed nine stone so I was always going to struggle against bigger opponents." 
In later years he often told the story of one of his few outings with the Trim senior football team.  Ted was picked to play at left corner forward in the championship against Skryne.  As he ambled down to the top of the left position before the throw in he noticed that the Skryne corner back Michael O'Brien was waiting to mark him. 
At the time O'Brien was one of the top corner backs in the country having won All-Ireland medals with Meath in 1949 and 1954 and also three Railway Cup medals with Leinster.  As Ted often said, "the rest is history, I never got a kick of the ball that day".
Ted Murtagh was still in his twenties when he commenced a refereeing career that would extend over 25 years.  He had never intended to take up the whistle, it just happened. "There was a tournament football final on in Trim between Kells and Navan O'Mahonys one Sunday and Tommy Murray from Boardsmill was down to referee it.  For some reason Tommy never turned up and Ted was asked to step into the breach.  He was relucant to do it, but if he did not, the game would have been postponed. 
The Westmeath native went on to become one of the most respected referees in Meath, refereeing at every level in hurling and football and also on the inter-county stage.  His big assignments in the Royal County included four senior hurling championship finals as well as a number of senior football semi finals.  Further afield Ted refereed at inter-county level with many games in the National Hurling League.
In an administrative capacity Ted served in a variety of roles within Trim GAA club over the years.  He had long stints as secretary and treasurer and held the position of juvenile treasurer for 25 years. 
In later years and up until the commencement of his short illness this spring, Ted was the mainstay behind the club bingo every Friday night.  He was organiser-in-chief, was immensely popular, had a warm welcome for all of the attending bingo players and also managed to play every night himself.
In the early 1970's he became very active in the juvenile club.  This involvement coincided with the initiation of the GAA careers of his two sons Derek and CJ to whom Ted had obviously passed on his love for Gaelic games.
Derek cut short his hurling and football career when he emigrated to Tenerife where he pursued a working career as a musician.  He was a talented dual player and won an All Ireland 'B' minor hurling championship medal with Meath in the 1980s.  Derek was part of the Trim senior hurling set up in the mid 1980s when they came back to prominence as a major force in Meath.
CJ went on to become one of Trim's finest dual stars in the 1980s and 1990s.  In football he represented his club at Meath minor and U21 level and played senior football for the club up to the late 1990s. But it was in hurling that he gained the most success. 
Over the period from 1997 to 2004 he collected nine Meath senior hurling championship medals.  During that spell the Trim club won nine senior hurling championships, drew one final, losing the replay and lost out in four semi finals.  CJ was a central figure in all. 
He went on to manage the senior hurlers in 2004 when they narrowly lost to Kilmessan in the senior championship final. 
It was with great pride that in recent years Ted watched the next generation of Murtaghs take to the playing fields, his grandchildren.  David has come through the Trim juvenile system in hurling and football and is presently togging out at u16 level in both codes.  Ted's grand daughters Elaine and Julianna play juvenile camogie and ladies football for the Trim club while his grandson Ross in Tenerife has been a soccer prodigy with schoolboy connections to Manchester United and Real Madrid.
As a supporter of Gaelic games Ted's record was second to none.  Over the years he was ever present at Trim matches, working behind the scenes as a selector and preparing team sheets before the games.  As one Trim Gael put it recently "Ted was the ultimate behind the scenes man."
At inter-county level he was also a keen supporter of Meath and his native Westmeath in both hurling and football and he could hold the record of All-Ireland finals attended by any one person. 
Ted attended his first in 1951 and every year thereafter he made it to both hurling and football finals, including replays up to the football final of 2012.  A total of 124 finals plus four replays.  He had great recollections of many great finals in Croke Park which he often regaled to enthusiastic listeners. Ted's own words
"The Cork - Wexford hurling final of 1956 when Christy Ring unleashed an 'exocet' that the Wexford goalkeeper somehow managed to block.  It was a wonder save and Ring strode forward to shake Art Foley's hand in an iconic moment that has become part of All-Ireland folklore.
"Back in those days, long before health and safety regulations were strictly enforced it was possible to sit literally on the sideline and end line and watch the action unfold just a few metres away.
"I  remember the 1953 football final showdown where Armagh's Bill McCorry missed a penalty when the Ulster side had the mighty Kerry on the rack.
"The wonderful performance of the Kells youngster Michael Grace as Meath defeated Kerry to win the Sam Maguire for the second time in 1954.
"The sight of Mattie McDonagh in tears after Galway lost out to Dublin in the 1963 final.  The final that gave me the most safisfaction was the 1967 win when Trim player Peter Darby captained the Meath team.  They were great celebrations around the county after that win.
"Galway's three-in-a-row in the 1960s was an exciting time. I don't think I saw a better footballer than Galway's Sean Purcell, he was magical.
"I  had a bad experience at the 1961 final when Down played Offaly.  The attendance that day was around 91,000, when the stadium had a capacity of 70,000.  Like many other supporters I was nearly crushed in the pushing that ensued."
For his outstanding contribution to his club and county in a variety of capacities over the years Ted received the Coiste na Mí Sean Gael award in September 2005.  That same weekend he was presented with the Benemeranti medal for 50 years of service to the St Vincent de Paul.
Apart from his GAA activities Ted was also well known in Trim and further afield for his work with the St Vincent de Paul.
So, from all of us at Trim GAA club, we say goodbye to our friend Ted.  We remember him as one that was diligent, friendly, honest and passionate.
To his wife Ann and his family we extend our deepest sympathy.
Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a anam.
(Seamus Brennan - Trim GAA club)

Joe Fitzsimons - (Trim)
An appreciation
It was with great sadness that the community of Trim learned of the death of Joe Fitzsimons. It was especially sad for all his colleagues in Trim GAA club as he was a former great on the hurling and football fields with his native club and also a star hurler for Meath for the best part of two decades. After his playing days were over Joe followed the fortunes of his club and county right up until his later years.
At 95 years of age Joe was the oldest member of our club, was the last remaining player of the great senior hurling championship winning teams of 1935, '40, '41 and '42 and was the last of the 1934 Trim junior team that won the Meath Junior football championship.
Joe's final visit to our club was in July of 2010 when he attended the launch of our Pictorial History. The large attendance that night felt a great sense of pride to have Joe amongst them as he was regarded as one of the great individuals of yesteryear, one that graced the hurling and football fields of Meath for his beloved Trim club. On the night he recalled his experience with the club as far back as seventy years.
As a contribution to our recent Club History publication he wrote a letter to the authors. His comments typified the man who was proud to have represented his club back in the 1930's and 40's.
The following is an extract from his letter - "My first introduction to hurling was at home in our field when a few locals would gather together to play matches. I started playing football when I went to the Technical School in 1932. We won the Meath Schools title that year and a few times altogether. I was a member of the Trim GAA team that won the Meath Junior Football Title in 1934. We also won several County Senior Hurling titles over the 15 years I played for Trim. I was also a member of the 1942 team to reach the Senior Final (abandoned).
"I would rate the 1935 team the best team ever to represent Trim. It would be impossible to mention any individuals, they were all so good. While Trim was a hurling town it was in football that they succeeded in winning a football title in 1934 …………. I would also like to see the return of the old jersey i.e. yellow cuffs and collars, there was something magic about it. It was the jersey that was dreaded. It was said to be worth 2 points.
"The meetings of Trim and Kilmessan were always the highlight of the year. A titanic struggle ensued. It was great, very tough stuff. I believe we always had the edge. It would be remiss of me were I not to mention some of the stalwarts of the past who kept the flag flying in hard times. Names like Matt Ward (Senior), Bill Fay (Senior), Hynes Brothers, Mathews brothers, Jack Keegan, Jack Shaw, Mick Fagan, Kit Fay, Kane brothers, and the Kellys."
Joe came to the fore as a school boy star in 1932 when he captained the Trim vocational school to a schools championship. It was not too long before he progressed on to the Trim adult football and hurling teams and this was the start of a fifteen year career in football and hurling for his club coupled with many years starring for Meath hurlers.
Trim had never won a football championship although beaten in two Meath Senior finals in 1906 and 1908 and had not won a hurling championship since their three in a row, 1919 to 1921. Finally their footballers delivered in 1934 with the seventeen year old Joe starring. In 1935 he lined out for the Trim Senior hurling team that won the Meath championship after a gap of fourteen years.
That same year he held the full back position on the Meath minor hurling team during their Leinster championship campaign. In 1936 he lined out at centre field for the Meath senior hurling team in the Leinster hurling league. He would go on the play for Meath for a number of years after that. In all he won two junior football championship and four senior hurling championship medals and numerous Feis cup competitions for his club.
After his retirement from playing circa 1948 Joe continued to have an active interest in the club. In 1953 he trained the senior football team that reached and were beaten in the Meath final by Navan O'Mahonys, the first Keegan Cup final. That Trim team included two recently deceased players in Sonny Kelly, who was captain of the team, and Jim Fay.

Paddy Bird (Trim)
After a long illness, Paddy passed away on April 4th last. There was great sadness within the Trim club and the county. All during the late eighties, the nineties and up until to the start of his illness, Paddy could be regarded as the face of Trim GAA club.
As the club's regular gateman he was the first person that supporters met as they came to the many games that were played in the grounds at that time. He was hugely popular with the incoming supporters, was always ready to have the banter with them and consequently was a well-known and liked character throughout the county.
Paddy was born and reared in Loman Street in the heart of Trim town. During his school days in the Christian Brothers he first came to prominence as a footballer and hurler when he was a member of the successful championship winning U14 teams, hurling and football, of 1954.
Among his team-mates at the time were future Trim stars such as Sean Colgan, Paddy Keogh and his brother Chris. In the following three years he came up through the juvenile ranks, mainly in hurling, his first love.
In 1955 he played at corner forward on an U16 team that was beaten in the county hurling final. A year later, he a was member of the Trim minor hurling team that lost out in the county final. He finally got his reward when a key figure on a minor hurling team that won county honours in 1957.
In the following year, and still a minor player, he graduated on to a Trim senior hurling team that was arguably the best ever in the club. In the previous nine years they had won six senior hurling championship titles and were heading for a three-in-a-row.
Their chances of outright victory were scuppered by a superb Boardsmill team that drew with them in the latter stages of the championship thus effectively putting them out as they had been beaten earlier by Kiltale. Boardsmill went on to win their first ever senior hurling championship that year.
Trim returned to winning ways in 1959 and 1960 and Paddy donned the red jersey for that Jubilee Cup two-in-a-row. Paddy Bird remained on as a player in the sixties but hurling in the club had gone into decline as the great team of the fifties had all retired.
In 1966 he emigrated to England with his wife Mary which put a hold on his hurling career. On their return to Ireland in 1972, Paddy quickly got back into harness as a member of the Intermediate hurling squad.
He played intermittingly up to the mid-seventies but age had caught up with him and  Paddy retired from the game in his mid-thirties. When his playing career was over he continued on as a club member, a very active committee member and was involved in most of the grounds upkeep all through the eighties, nineties up until 2006.
May he rest in peace.    

Pauline Lynam (Trim)
Members of Trim GAA club were saddened to hear of the passing of Pauline Lynam last February. Pauline was a member of a great GAA family in Trim and her two sons, PJ and Frank, were key players for the club during the seventies and eighties.
Frank was a member of the Trim team that won three SHC titles in-a-row in the late eighties and was also an accomplished footballer, lining out for the club's senior football team. Pauline's grandson Eimhin Lynam (Frank's son) was likewise an outstanding hurler and footballer during the nineties and has a number of senior hurling championship medals to his name.
Her brothers, Sonny, Frank and George Kelly are part of Trim GAA folklore. During the forties and fifties, they hurled for Meath and Trim and played football for Trim. Between them they won over twenty Meath SHC medals.
Pauline's father, Jack Kelly, was also a hurler of note in the early years of the last century. After winning five Meath senior hurling championship medals, he went on to become one of Trim's great club men in his later years.

James Power (Trim)
James was well known in Trim as a great GAA supporter and his passing following a long illness caused widespread sadness amongst club members. Growing up he would have watched his two older brothers Maurice and Michael play football for Trim so it was part of his family tradition that James would follow the same path.
He became a key player on the club's juvenile hurling and football teams in the late seventies and eighties when Trim were a force to be reckoned with at Meath underage level. James was a very effective full-forward on the 1983 minor team that won the county title after beating Killyon in a replay. He scored a marvellous goal in the drawn match.
In 1986, at 21 years of age, he was a key player for the club's junior hurling team that reached the county final and was a member of the U-21 hurling team that won the Meath championship that year. James' playing career was cut short by a car accident in the mid-nineties but he continued to support the club in the years that followed.

Marie Lynch
A member of the well-known Matthews family who have a long association with Navan O'Mahonys, Trim resident Marie's brothers served the Brews Hill club with distinction. Her son Fergal is well-known to Meath gaels as a sports reporter with the Meath Chronicle while her daughter Ann is married to former Summerhill player and current selector Billy Shaw.
(Thanks to Seamus Brennan and Trim GAA club for their assistance)

Cepta Timmons (Beauparc)
Cepta was a member of the well-known Carter family who have made a major contribution to Seneschalstown GAA club. Her father Pat served as chairman of the Yellow Furze outfit and her brothers, Sonny and Maurice, played with the club. Cepta's late husband Patsy, who was a native of Slane, was also a keen football supporter.

Leo Darby (Hayes, Navan)
Leo's sons, Conor and Brendan, played with Seneschalstown and, more recently, his grandsons, Robert and Neil, have followed in the family tradition.

Mary Finnegan (Kentstown)
Nee Kennedy, Mary's husband Sean was a former player with the Seneschalstown club.
(Our thanks to Elaine Battersby and the Seneschalstown club)

Ricky McDermott (Crossakiel)
The entire parish of Kilskyre and Ballinlough was thrown into a state of complete shock last Easter when news of the tragic death of Clonabreany lad Ricky McDermott filtered through. Only two weeks into his 17th year, Ricky had played a star game for Ballinlough on Easter Sunday afternoon as Nobber were beaten in the Division Three league.
Without doubt he was Ballinlough's brightest prospect. Commencing with the club's under 10 team, Ricky, a fifth year student at St. Oliver's Post Primary School, Oldcastle, was the shooting star as Ballinlough gained titles at under 14, 15 and 17 level and a minor win with the St Oliver's amalgamation
His accuracy from placed balls was exceptional and one recalls him playing an under 15 match against Dunderry, while a 14 year old, and driving the O Neills size 5 straight between the posts from two 45s. A feat most senior players would only dream about.
A one man scoring machine, Ricky McDermott notched 0-9 against Ballinabrackey in the 2010 under 15 decider while a year later he shot all of 1-15 in an under 16 semi final which went to extra time.
His proudest moment came that same year when his tally of 1-8 was the main reason why Ballinlough downed Wolfe Tones in an under 17 final.
These scoring exploits attracted the attention of county selectors and Ricky featured for Meath in the 2012 Gerry Reilly under 16 tournament. Popular with all and completely dedicated to his training he would have been a regular on the Meath minor team in the season ahead.
Ballinlough GAA have lost a great player but more importantly his family have lost a loved son and brother. We extend our deepest sympathy to Ricky's parents Richie and Ita, his sister Sarah, brother James grandmother Rosie and all his relations. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis. Ballinlough GAA

Michael O'Keeffe (Crossakiel )
Absolutely devastated to hear about the death of Michael O'Keeffe from Creevagh after a farm accident. Michael was a larger than life character who was involved in a number of local and national organisations.
From an old Creevagh farming clan, Michael was not only a progressive farmer but indeed a successful businessman. Way ahead of his time in farming methods, Michael, after studying in the various farming colleges and watching events unfold in the UK and Europe, introduced many new, more modern methods of farming to the family holding. Schemes that are now part and parcel of everyday farming life some 30 years later.
The O'Keeffe's were always fond of their GAA and when cars were scarce back in the 60s, Michael's father Jimmy was always on hand to drive young budding footballers to then far away places like Moynalty or Carnaross.
Michael's grandfather was none other than Paddy Hopkins, who was secretary of the old North Meath Board for years. Paddy ran a popular butchers establishment in Kells and was regarded by many as Mr GAA in the area during the middle portion of the last century. On that side of his family Michael was also a first cousin of Carlanstown native Tom Clinton, former President of the IFA.
Michael completed his secondary education as a boarder in Gormanston College and there became attracted to the game of hurling. Earlier he had played juvenile football with Ballinlough and because of his healthy frame was usually thrown into the full back position. But it was at hurling that the young O'Keeffe was to excel. He was a regular on Meath underage teams and full back on a Kilskyre side which moved up and down the grades, from senior to junior, during the 70s.
Michael O'Keeffe, despite another bad farming accident twelve years back, was never one to sit around and was involved in a number of associations. Invariably he was elected to a position of responsibility. At the time of his passing he was President of the North East Regional Council of the St. Vincent De Paul.
Michael is survived by his wife Anne-Marie, son James, who has lined out at all levels for Ballinlough, daughters Karen and Ruth and by his sister Mary. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam---JL

Bridget McCormack (Kilskyre)
Bridget was a native of Westmeath. Situated on her family farm is the site where James Connell, author of the Red Flag, was born. Brigid's son Seamus played for both the Kilskyre hurling and Ballinlough football teams. Her son in law Joe Nealon was a star player with Kilskyre during the 1980's

Nancy Muldoon (Kilskyre)
Nancy's son Paddy lined out in goals for Kilskyre, Ballinlough and the old Killallon club. Her grandsons, the Muldoons, Padraig and Derek, play with both Ballinlough and Kilskyre while the Farrells have togged out for Ballinlough. Robbie Farrell is a regular in defence for the north Meath club over the past number of years.

Eveline Tevlin (Kilskyre)
Eveline was a native of Moynalty. She and her late husband Matty took a big interest in all local clubs and the progress of the Meath team.

Elizabeth (Lilly)
McCaffrey (Kilskyre)
Lilly was a native of Leitrim and with her husband James came to farm in the area over 40 years back. Their family are very valued members of the local community and Lilly's grandson Karl O'Reilly was a regular on the Ballinlough senior team for a number of years. Another grandson Johnnie Reilly is a present player with Ballinlough.

Mary Reilly (Crossakiel)
Nee Dunne from Newcastle, Moynalty, Mary's husband Michael tragically died at a young age. She was left to bring up a large family and at the same time run a garage business, roles which she performed to perfection. Mary was 92 years of age at the time of her passing.
Her sons James and Finian were terrific sponsors of both Ballinlough and Kilskyre clubs over the years while another son John has been active on Ballinlough committees and with various fund raising ventures associated to the Meath County Board. John's son Johnnie (see above obituary with Lilly McCaffrey) is a current Ballinlough player.
Sons in law of Mary include former Ballinlough club chairman and player Cathal Flynn, Seamus and Gerry McNamee, excellent performers for Ballinlough and who both wore the Meath senior jersey, and Seamus Davis who has served Bective as secretary for a long number of years.
Our sincere thanks to Peadar Byrne, senior, for all his help with the Ballinlough and Kilskyre obituaries

Kathleen Norris (Navan)
Kathleen's late husband, well-known car dealer Joe Norris, served as chairman of Syddan GFC. A native of Fennor, Slane, she came to live in Lobinstown in 1968 when she married Joe and the family later moved to Navan in 1994. Kathleen's sons Gerald, Paul and John all played with Syddan at various levels. The Norris family have always been generous supporters of the Syddan club.

Phil & Mary Taaffe (Ardee)
Phil played football with Syddan, winning many underage accolades and he remained a loyal supporter of the club. His wife Mary also sadly passed away this year.

Tommy Farrelly 
Tommy lined out at underage level with Syddan but never really played much at adult.  His first cousin of the same name is still the only Syddan player to lift the Keegan Cup in 1956.  Tommy is also an uncle of former All-Ireland medal winning goalkeeper Michael McQuillan.

Marie Meade
Marie was a daughter of George Dillon. His brother Bill played full back back for Meath in the 1920s and 30s, winning a national league medal in 1933.  Bill was also the founding member of the present Syddan club in the mid 1930s.  Marie's husband Oliver played with Syddan and also looked after the underage teams in the 1940s and 50s.  Her grandchildren are presently playing underage with Syddan.

Harry Malone
Harry was a very strong supporter of both Syddan and Meath teams down through the years despite not playing very much himself.  Harry's granddaughters are all presently lining out with the Dee Rangers ladies teams.

Dympna Halpin
Nee Dolan, Dympna was a member of one of the families which have played a central role in the development of the Syddan club. Her father was treasurer of the club for over 30 years while her brothers, Sean and Andy, served as secretary and treasurer respectively for over 50 years between them.
Andy, along with another brother Paddy, both played for the north Meath club. Dympna was a dedicated supporter of the Syddan club and was very proud when her first cousin, Joe Cassells, lifted the Sam Maguire Cup for Meath in 1988.
(Thanks to Catherine Byrne, Gerry Dillon and Syddan GFC)

Johnny Lenehan
Johnny was a member of the Duleek intermediate winning side of 1955 and also represented the county junior team. He was involved in the underage section within the club in the seventies and his grandchildren currently play for Duleek/Bellewstown.

Nelly Dunne
Nelly's sons Donal and Paul are former players with Duleek while her two grandsons currently play with the club - Casey won a Junior B Championship in 2009 and is a regular on the Duleek/Bellewstown senior team while Shane lines out with the club's junior side.

Peggy Murray
Peggy's son Cianan won an IFC medal in 1978. Another son, Ken Murray, also played underage with Duleek and is a well-known reporter.

Sandra Clarke
Sandra's husband George was a selector with Duleek in the early nineties while sons Philip and Robert both played underage football. Robert is currently a member of our junior team. George hails from a very prominent GAA family in Castletown and was centre half back on an outstanding Meath team which won the Leinster minor championship in 1980.

Vera Powderly
Vera's husband Joe won SFC and Feis Cup medals in 1943 and an IFC medal in 1955 with Duleek. Her sons Gerry, Pat (later Simonstown) and Kevin also lined out for Duleek while Vera herself was heavily involved in the ICA in the village.


Olive Lynch
Olive was wife of John and both were great supporters of the club. Olive's nephew Seamus Curley is a former player and secretary of Duleek GFC.

Maureen Lenehan
Maureen was married to the late Bartle Lenehan, Slane, who won an IFC medal with Duleek in 1955.

Kathleen Woods
Kathleen's sons Michael, Kenneth and Noel are all former players with Duleek. Noel is also involved with Duleek/Bellewstown underage ladies teams.

Tom Heavey
Tom won a MFC medal in 1960 and an IFC medal in 1966 while his nephews Barry and James are current players with Duleek/Bellewstown.

Eucharia Carroll
Eucharia was wife of Mickey and mother of Kevin. Mickey was a key member of the Duleek intermediate winning team in 1978 and Kevin won a JFC medal in 1995.

William Ludlow
William's sons, Vincent and Nicholas, were regular players with Duleek GFC in the eighties.

Mark Dowling
Mark, who died tragically, was a cousin of Duleek/Bellewstown ladies player Katie Dowling.

Olivia Sheridan
Olivia was sister to Seamus Byrne and her two nieces, Orla and Kate, play with Duleek/Bellewstown ladies.

Mary Noone
Mary's son Peter, otherwise known as PP, played with Duleek and is a regular at matches. Her other son Kevin of Noone Transport is also a great supporter of the club. Mary's grandson Wayne and her great grandson Conor currently line out with Duleek Bellewstown.
(Thanks to Joan Lenehan and the Duleek/Bellewstown club for all their help)

Paddy 'Sport' Gilligan
Paddy was a member of the St Pat's committee in the early years and was father-in-law of the late Patrick Mooney, a former club player who died tragically on helicopter duty.

Gretta Curran  
Gretta's late husband was Jimmy Curran of Mayo fame and her son Ivan was a prominent player with the club for many years. She was a sister-in-law of well-known committee member Martin Curran.

Miriam Woods  
Miriam was a sister of current St Patrick's chairman 'Anto' Woods.

Dara Cooney Kearns   
Dara was partner of Enda Kearns, brother of present St Pat's player Ronan Kearns.

Rosario Hannigan
Rosario was a sister of Kevin Loughlin, the development officer for St. Pat's.

Tony Berrill
Tony's brothers Matt and Patsy Berrill played for St Pat's.

Fr. Eamonn Newell   
Order of Friars Minor (OFM), Gormanston College.

Frances Ryan
Frances was married to David Ryan and his uncle Tom Ryan won a medal with the club in 1963.

Patrick Maloney   
Patrick's son Darragh Maloney is a well-known RTE Sports commentator who resides in Stamullen.

Nan Whelan  
Nan's husband Eamonn won a minor medal in 1951 with Julianstown and their sons Peter, Ciaran and Richard played with St. Pat's.  Peter won a 'B' championship medal in 1975.

Dominic Smith   
Dominic's son-in-law Daithi Whyte has represented St Pat's and Meath with distinction.

Johnny Matthews
Johnny was a member of the St Pat's panel that claimed Junior Football 'B' honours in 1975.

Tommy McCausland  
Tommy was father of John Mc Causland whose daughters play football with the St Pat's ladies section.

Ann McGuinness   
Ann's brothers, John and Paul, played with St Pat's while sister Debbie Wogan's son and daughter play with St Pat's today.

Brian McConville   
Brian's wife Anne was a member of the St Pat's club committee and both were great supporters of the club's team and Meath.

Joan Moran
Joan's son Alan played with St Pat's.

'Lofty' Black      
'Lofty' was a St Pat's committee member in the early days and his son Liam played with the Stamullen club.

Maureen Cunningham   
Wife of the late Tony Cunningham, Maureen was also related to current St Pat's club committee members, Declan Russell and Thomas Reilly.
Mark Dowling   
The only son of John and Ann Dowling, Mark's sisters Clair and Susan played ladies football with St Pat's and his cousin Shane is a member of the senior football team at present.

Patrick Rowe     
Patrick's brother Michael played with St Pat's and coaches at underage level.

Jim Geoghegan   
Jim's son Gary played with St Pat's and he was a great supporter of the club and Meath alike.

Margaret O'Brien  
Margaret's son Colin plays hurling with St Pat's and won a Junior 2 medal this year.  Margaret was a sister of Rosie Gaughran whose husband Ollie Gaughran was a former chairperson of St Pat's and is currently involved in the Development Committee.

Tom Kiely    
Tom was an uncle of Pat Ryan, secretary of St Patrick's, and granduncle of J.P. Ryan who captained the 2013 Junior 2 Hurling team.

Breda Reilly
Breda's husband Eamonn Reilly was a founding member of the St Pat's hurling team and her sons, David and Niall, played with the club.

Ben Whelan   
Ben's brother Andy won a 1963 medal with St. Pat's, his nephew, John Nealon, lined out with the club and his grandnephews, Conor, Kevin and Ruairi, play with the club today.

Paddy Finn  
Paddy was on the 1975 'B' winning St Pat's panel. His late father Paddy was a former player and committee member and his brother Ronan played with the club.

Mr and Mrs Belton
Mr and Mrs Belton died within days of each other. They were parents of Gerry Belton whose sons Stephen and Conor play with St Pat's at underage.

Billy Doyle   
Billy's father, also Billy, played with St Pat's. His cousins Gary and Keith Traynor likewise lined out with the club. Grandad Traynor also passed away during the year

Jim Monks    
Jim's brother Joe lined out for St. Pat's and his nephew Jonathan won a Junior 2 medal this year.

Peggy McEntaggart   
Mother of Martin who played with St Pat's. Her grandson Bryan Mallon currently plays.

Alec Hutheson   
Alec's son James played with St Pat's.
(Thanks to Myra O'Flaherty and the St Patricks Stamullen club for their brilliant help)

Maureen Moloney (nee Keane)
Maureen, formerly of Lyreacrompane, Co. Kerry was long associated with Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA club, especially in our old home in the Wotton where she and her husband James were the drop in point for access to the Wotton. She was a great supporter of the club and helped out at many social events.
She always encouraged the family to participate in the GAA and saw her sons play for the club at underage level. Maureen and James celebrated 60 years of marriage in our new clubhouse a couple of years back and were surrounded by family and friend on that special occasion.
Maureen is sadly missed by her loving husband James, family Ray, Josephine, John and Denis. Deeply regretted by her family, grandchildren, great-grandchild, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, sisters in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and her many dear friends within the Donaghmore Ashbourne community. Ar Dheis De go raibh a h-anam.

Phil Synnott (née Kearns)
Phil was a member of the Kearns family, one of the founding members of the club. She passed away suddenly during the year. Phil's father and his brothers played for the original Donaghmore team from 1924 to the 1930s.
Her husband Joe was also deeply involved with the club. Phil's family all played for the club with Joe being one of our club referees. Phil was a great family person and tried to pass on all her knowledge to her grandchildren. She was long associated with the library in Ashbourne and in later years was also seen within the company of Aily O'Regan and Terry Tormey at club events.
Phil is sadly missed by her children Christine, Marie, Carol, Joe, Declan and Catherine, brother Paddy Joe, and sister Helen, nephew Hugh, daughter in law Anne, grandchildren, sister-in-law, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law and her immediate family and also the Donaghmore Ashbourne community. Ar Dheis De go raibh a h-anam.

Larry Geraghty
Larry was a member of another family associated with the formation of Donaghmore GAA club back in 1923. His brother Kit supervised the construction of our first clubhouse known as the hall in Greenogue back in 1925.
Larry himself was on the Donaghmore minor team that won the Meath title in 1938. This team included Jackie Maye and Oliver Walsh, grandfather to club and county player Andrew Tormey. Larry is sadly missed by his family and friends and also the Donaghmore Ashbourne Community. Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam.

Attracta (Trixie) Isdale
Trixie Isdale was a member of the famous sporting O'Flanagan family. Her brothers Dr. Kevin and Mick played both soccer and rugby for Ireland and Charlie played for Bohs. Dr. Kevin also served with the International Olympic Committee.
Trixie married into the Isdale family who were long associated with the club in Donaghmore. Her husband Jimmy served the club as Chairman in the past. She is saddly missed by her sons John and Jim, daughter Siobhan, grandchildren Emma and Cerys, Sylvia and Serena and extended O'Flanagan family, relatives and friends. Trixie is fondly remembered by the Donaghmore Ashbourne Community. Ar Dheis De go raibh a h-anam.

Shane McEntee
A true GAA Gael and brother of our former senior football team manager Andrew McEntee.

Mary Deery
Mother of Willie Deery and grandmother to club players Gareth, Danny and Becky.

Carmel Cawley
Mother of Junior Footballer Eunan and sister in law to Ladies football chairperson Timmy O'Keefe.

Bridget O Sullivan, sister of Mortimer O Sullivan

Rita Stenson, mother of Edel Stenson and grandmother to club players Rachel, Kevin, Mark and Stephen.

Harry Ellis, father to Jack and grandfather to senior player Ciaran.

Joseph Leahy, father of Ladies football mentor Barry and player Shelby

Michael Keane, brother of camogie player Ger Keane.

Kathleen Wood, mother of former hurler Noel Woods.

Mary Neil (nee Brady), sister of former deceased president Dinny Brady and grand aunt of Greg Twomey and Kathleen Tormey
Jim Lanigan, father of senior footballer Kevin Lanigan.

Chrissy Broderick, mother of Joe Broderick and grandmother of senior footballer and hurler John

John King, uncle of Michael King

Bernie Rowe, sister of Michael Deegan
Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club extend their sympathies and condolences to all club members who suffered a bereavement in the past year

Pat Sheridan (Oldcastle)
Thirty four year old Pat was principal of Lismullin N.S. at the time of his death. He had played all grades of football from underage right up to senior with Oldcastle. Pat was a very committed clubman and a huge driving force behind Gaelic Games in his Lismullin school.

Carmel Clarke (Oldcastle)
Carmel was a sister of Bishop Michael Smith. Her husband Eamonn played for Oldcastle during the 1950's.

Karen Callan
Karen died in Norway. Her husband Peter Callan was an excellent footballer for Oldcastle in the 1950's

Nora Farrelly (Oldcastle)
Nee Burke, Nora was married to former St. Brigid's, Ballinacree footballer John Farrelly. The couple's four sons have all worn the Meath jersey at underage level. Ronan, who played senior championship football for Meath, Thomas, John Paul and Terence have also backboned the Oldcastle senior team since the mid 1990's. Nora's daughter Alison lines out with the Oldcastle ladies team.

Ann (Cissy) Halpin (Oldcastle)
Cissy hailed from nearby Castlerahan and was the wife of former Oldcastle President Kevin Halpin.

Patsy Lynch (Oldcastle)
Patsy's family have a long association with the club. His brother Tommy was a star player.

Brendan Smith (Oldcastle)
Brendan was President of Oldcastle at the time of his death. An outstanding player, he won a junior championship medal with the north Meath outfit in 1956. Kevin acted as chairman of Oldcastle and the tradition lives on with his grandchildren, the Delaneys, playing underage with the club. He was one of the driving forces behind the excellent work carried out on the Millbrook pitch.

Eugene Coyle (Oldcastle)
Eugene's family have a long involvement with the club. His son played underage while grand daughter Sinead Coyle has won medals with both Oldcastle and Meath ladies.

Oliver Keogan (Oldcastle)
Oliver always followed the fortunes of the Meath footballers. His son Kenneth played for the Oldcastle club during the 1990's.

Michael Mullen (Oldcastle)
One of the best known personalities in the Oldcastle area. A leading businessman, Michael's family have a long association with Oldcastle GFC. His son Declan was a star defender for both Meath and Oldcastle and served as a Meath senior football selector with Sean Boylan.

Goretti Smith (Millbrook)
Sadly Goretti's husband Jim passed away only two years past. Their son Jim Smith was an outstanding defender for both club and Meath underage teams. Jim was left full back on the All Ireland winning Meath minor team of 1992.

John Herbstreit (Oldcastle)
John never played football himself but in his lifetime made an outstanding contribution to Oldcastle GFC. As long as anyone can remember Herbstreit's shop was the football house in Oldcastle town.
Long before mobiles, long before the very phone itself all messages with regards matches, training etc were left in Herbstreits. John acted as President of the club and was one of the founders of Oldcastle juvenile section. He was an uncle of former Oldcastle stars John, Bart and Leo McEnroe.

Oliver Tuite (Oldcastle)
Oliver was a big Meath supporter and his two brothers Peter and Andrew played for Oldcastle.

Margo Farrelly (Castlepollard)
Nee Fox, Margo was the sister of former Oldcastle star T.P. Fox and from a family long associated with the club.

Tom Caffrey (Millbrook)
Tom's company have sponsored Oldcastle GFC while his son James plays underage.

Mick Reynolds (Oldcastle/ Leitrim)
Mick's sudden death stunned everybody in the north Meath community. He came to live in Oldcastle 40 years ago from county Leitrim where he played for Aughavas, the club associated with Colm O Rourke's family. Mick played on the Aughavas team which captured the Leitrim senior title in 1963 and was preparing to travel home to celebrate the 50th anniversary of that occasion
An old fashioned midfieder with an excellent catch, Mick was a key player for the fine Oldcastle team of the mid to late 1970's. A product of that famed GAA academy, St. Mel's of Longford, where he won a coveted Hogan Cup medal, the Leitrim native served his adopted club in probably every position except that of chairman.
His son Vincent won an intermediate championship medal with Oldcastle in 2009 and two Feis Cup awards. In fact Vincent captained the 1999 Feis Cup winning team.
Mick Reynolds trained underage teams in the club and was very committed to the re development of the Show Hall. It was while working on this pet project that Mick sadly departed this world. As a dedicated worker to Oldcastle football he had no equals.

Vincent Coyle (Oldcastle)
Vincent's father James Michael Coyle played with Oldcastle during the 1950's and 1960's. His two sons play underage football.

Rosa Carroll (Oldcastle)
Rosa owned Carrolls Drapers shop in Oldcastle. Her sons Paddy and Thomas played underage football with the club.

Nobby Flanagan (Oldcastle)
Nobby hailed from the Ballinvalley area of the parish, was a big supporter of all sports, with a particular eye on the well being of the Oldcastle and Meath teams.
Our thanks to Peter Galligan and Eddie Reilly for all his help with their Oldcastle obituaries

Ray Prendiville
There was widespread sadness and shock following the sudden and untimely death of Ray Prendiville, Sutherland, Curraha, who passed away on August 30th of this year.
Ray played a major part in Curraha's annexing of the 1976 Meath junior football championship, when they defeated Nobber 1-10 to 3-1 in the final. In a preview of the game, the Meath Chronicle reported that 'Curraha has a fair share of experienced performers, notably the former Dublin county man, Shay Donnelly, and Ray Prendiville, who has assisted Kerry in the senior and under-21 grades over the past couple of years.' 
It continued: 'Prendiville, in his first season with the Meath club, has been proving his worth on the full forward line'. In the quarter final against Bohermeen-Martry Harps, he and Sean Galway had been 'especially brilliant in the winners' attack. And he didn't let Curraha down in the final, giving his side the lead in the fifth minute with a point.
He went on to make appearances for Meath in the National Football League, and continued to play for Curraha for a number of years in the late 1970s.  Fittingly, members of that 1976 team plus other members of Curraha GAA Club formed a guard of honour for Ray at his funeral. 
Speaking on RTÉ's Sunday Game show before this year's Dublin-Kerry All-Ireland semi- final, former Kerry footballer Pat Spillane paid tribute to Ray, remarking how he was a sub on the team for the 1975 All-Ireland. 
He scored a goal for 'The Kingdom' in his only championship outing, against Tipperary, and was on the bench for the final, some months later, when Kerry beat Dublin. He was one of the members of the 1975 team honoured in The Irish Nationwide Jubilee Team on All Ireland day in 2000.  
A former Garda, Ray was born in 1961 to parents Sean and May and lived in Scartaglen, Co Kerry.  Ray's parents moved to Sutherland in Curraha around 1969, where his brother, Tom, still runs the family farm with other members of the Prendiville family living in the area.  Tom's son, Sean Prendiville currently plays on the Curraha team. 
Ray won a Munster Championship medal playing with Kerry in 1975. He commenced his playing career with Scartaglen and also played for the Civil Service and with Tramore GAA in Waterford, winning the 1984 Waterford senior championship.   

Jimmy Lynch
Jimmy was an Honorary President and long time stalwart of the club. He was always the first man at the grounds when any work was to be done. Jimmy was also our 'gateman' for many years and could always be relied on to be on duty whatever the weather. He was one of the great characters of the parish and enjoyed socializing and recalling many stories of old. Jimmy passed away in November 2012.
 
Rowan Farrell
Rowan was an Honorary President and served as first aid officer to the club for 25 years. His knowledge and expertise of sports injuries was of immense benefit to those  he attended. He was also a founder member of Kilmoon Order of Malta Ambulance Service and gave many years of service at numerous race meetings and football games. Rowan passed away in July 2013.
 
Martin Colfer
Martin was one of those who revived the club's flagging fortunes in the early 1950s and served as club secretary in 1951/52 and as chairman in 1953/54. He continued to support Curraha since then and always kept a keen interest on how the club were doing. Martin passed away in September 2013.
 
Marjorie Farrell
The Farrell family are the proprietors of The Becks public house and are long time supporters of our club. Marjorie passed away in February 2013.
 
Ita Lynch
Ita's husband Christy was club chairman from 1955 to 1960 and the family have close connections with the club. Ita passed away in September 2013.

Beatrice Pentony
Beatrice was a sister of Shay Donnelly who played with our club in the 1970s and her family are long time supporters of the club. Beatrice passed away in August 2013.
Curraha GAA.
 
John Moran (Bective)
As Bective GFC prepares to embark on its 50th anniversary, those associated with the club will be forgiven for allowing themselves a few reflections on the first half century. A recurring personality in many of those memories will be John Moran, who served the club in every way for over 30 years until his sad passing on Sunday, August 11th, 2013.
At the time of his death John was the President of Bective GFC, and until illness robbed him of his ability to play a leading role in the day-to-day running of the club he was centrally involved in everything about Bective. He himself played for the Salles - indeed, he was a founding member of the old Commons club in 1960 - but to many it is as a Bective man that he will be forever associated, having joined the club in 1980 and served on the executive committee in every officer role over the following thirty years, including more than 10 as chairman. He was also a faithful servant of Meath County Board, as fixtures secretary and vice-chairman, and his service to Meath GAA culminated in his nomination to the Meath Hall of Fame in 2010.
There's half a century there, but how do you tell John Moran's story beyond that, beyond words on a page? It's hard, because to anyone who met him John was so full of life. You'd see him carrying a sheaf of papers en route to or from one meeting or another - invariably it involved football; whether it concerned club or county often depended on whatever night of the week you met him. You'd see him striding purposefully from clubrooms to pitch. In later years, after he'd left the training and the selecting to others, the day of a game would never go by without him. You'd see him resting on the pailing, watching attentively as events unfolded on the field, never short of a barked word of advice or censure. The big voice and the big smile were so familiar to everyone who knew him. Always, year after year after year, his motivation was the betterment of Bective, on the field and off it. And always, always there was humour.
Sitting in the kitchen of his Commons Road home on the night of his wake, one couldn't help but think that John himself would have loved it there. All the chat was about football - about one old stager who might have another year or two in him with the county; about another, of the younger brigade, who might be showing signs of becoming a great player; about a well-remembered and half-forgotten game back in the day where there was only one ball and a big full back, in a fit of temper, kicked it into a field of corn beside the pitch. Talk of football and quiet, respectful laughter. Football and good humour were two things always on offer whenever John Moran was around. It felt fitting that we should experience them again now, and it felt wrong too, that they were taking place without him.
A big man, with a big voice and a big smile, with a sheaf of papers and a few long strands of hair gone wild in the wind. The Moran family, the Commons, the Bective club, the county of Meath and the GAA have lost a legend.
Rest in peace, John. --Bective GFC

Lar Dixon
A modest and quiet man, Lar came from a family immersed in GAA. In his younger years, Lar played football with his native Roddenstown which later joined forces with Kilcloon and took on the colours of red and white.
In 1970 Lar, wearing his usual midfield jersey, lined out for Kilcloon when they won the Junior Championship title for the first time. The same year, he married Eileen Walsh (Moynalvey) and came to settle in the parish of Kiltale. Lar continued with his love for the GAA and, as an avid follower of Meath football, he passed down that grá to this eight children, six of whom represented Moynalvey football and Kiltale hurling and camogie.
Although a shy man, he loved the banter especially whilst attending club matches and his 'class' match comments always drew the amused attention of supporters from both sides. Lar followed the local clubs' successes and, in 2007, witnessed Kiltale snatch victory from the jaws of defeat in the Meath SHC final against Kilmessan in a thrilling match.
The following year, he travelled to Rochfortbridge to support Moynalvey as they won the Leinster JFC final. More recently, he took great delight when the Kiltale hurling and camogie club won seven pieces of silverware, including the SHC title, the JFC and league titles and Intermediate camogie and league titles in which the Dixon family was well represented. Lar is greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.

Sheila Lynch
Sheila was well known and respected throughout the county during her 20 years' service in administrative roles in various departments with Meath County Council. In 1993, she continued her career in the Public Service by moving to the Fire Prevention Unit of Dublin City Council where she remained until her retirement in December 2011.
Her hobbies included dress-making, gardening, travel and she had a keen interest in Gaelic Games. Sheila's brother Francis Lynch is one of the county's best known hurling administrators and has served as chairman of the Kiltale HC and the County's Hurling Promotion Committee.
In the 1970s, Sheila was an active member of Kiltale Macra na Feirme and represented the club and county in many competitions including the All-Ireland Make and Model. She was active in Kiltale Parish, being a Minister of the Word and a member of the Church Altar Society and prior to moving to Dublin was a member of the Legion of Mary.
(Thanks to Kiltale GAA and secretary Liz Phelan for the above information)

Laurence McCormack
Father of former intercounty referee Seamus, following sport was one of Laurence's great pastimes, particularly gaelic games and horse racing. He also got great enjoyment when the local soccer team played in Follistown in the eighties. Laurence's grandson Mark is a member of the current Walterstown senior football team while his grand-daughters also play for 'The Blacks'.

Fr Nicholas Dunican
A native of Kilbeggan, Co Westmeath, Fr Dunican was parish priest of Johnstown and Walterstown and he was an honorary president of the Walterstown club. A relation of Mick Dunican who played for Meath in the sixties, he was a also a cousin of the late Fr Seamus Dunican who played and trained Walterstown during his time with the club.

Cecil Geoghegan
Cecil was hugely involved in many sports, including football and racing, but, in GAA circles, he was best known for his exploits on the hurling field with his native Kildalkey. He won a Meath JHC medal in 1969 and an IHC medal two years later in 1971. He was also a member of the Meath side which captured Leinster JHC honours in 1972. Cecil lined out in three SHC finals with Kildalkey but, unfortunately, a senior medal proved elusive. He brought the curtain down on his playing days at the age of 40 and, in later years, he followed the fortunes of the Walterstown club with whom his sons, John and Joe, currently play with. Shooting and fishing were also two of Cecil's passions. His brother Jimmy is a popular local sports reporter with the Meath Chronicle.

Maureen O'Connor
Maureen was member of the Farrelly family from Lismullin, Garlow Cross which has a long association with the Walterstown club. Her brother Joey Farrelly senior played with the club and his sons, Joey, Jason and Christopher, continue to don the black jersey. Another nephew, Mark Farrelly, also represented the club with distinction.

Thomas Burke
There was widespread sadness following the passing of Garlow Cross native Thomas (Tommy) Burke in England in June. The Burke family has a long tradition of involvement with the Walterstown club and Tommy was a keen footballer in his younger days and played on underage teams before his promising gaelic football career was cut short as a result of a road accident.
His brothers, Frank and Pat, also played with the Oldtown-based club. Tommy worked as a bar manager in various establishments around London, including the House of Commons, and he remained a loyal follower of Walterstown GFC.

Mary (May) McMahon
May's late husband Tom played for Walterstown while her sons, Pat and Gerry, are current committee members and their children play underage football with the club.

Gerry Smith
Gerry and his wife Helen were great supporters of Walterstown down through the years and their son, Wayne, played underage and adult football with the club.
(Thanks to Aidan McCague and the Walterstown club)

Margaret Martin
Predeceased by her husband John in 1994, Margaret was a member of the Doyle family of Kilmessan Station. Her daughter, Pauline, served as secretary of Kilmessan HC for a number of years and son Pat represented the club at senior level.

Nora Martin
Nora's husband Benny played an instrumental role in buying Kilmessan HC's current field circa 1960. Her son, Gerry, is a former secretary of the club while another son, Joe, played with Kilmessan.

Ann Murphy
Ann was a member of a well-known family in Kilmessan and her husband Michael, who works at Ennistown Stud, was chairman of the local hurling club from 2008 to 2010. Her son Terence, plays hurling with Kilmessan while one of her two daughters, Tara, is an integral member of the camogie team.

Anthony Reynolds
There was widespread sadness following the death of Anthony last June. A native of Galtrim, he was the last surviving member of his generation of the Reynolds family and carried out a number of farming enterprises at Curtistown. He played hurling with Kilmessan after the war and was a lifelong supporter of the club.
Anthony also had a great love of all animals, especially dogs and horses, and Meath Hounds huntsman Kenny Henry paid him a wonderful tribute at his graveside by playing 'Gone to Ground' on the hunting horn.
Anthony always took a day off when the Meath Hunt or Ward Union Hunt were near by. His flower garden was admired by all and he grew his own vegetables. Anthony was proud to win many prizes at the Royal Meath Agricultural Show in Trim.

Eamonn Whelan
Formerly of Balsoon, Eamonn was a lifelong supporter of Kilmessan HC.
(Our thanks to secretary Tommy Brennan and Kilmessan HC)

Annie Gorman
A native of Dunmoe, Annie's son Dessie has served Simonstown Gaels with distinction in a variety of administrative roles. He occupied the chairman's position on two separate occasions, 1976-'80 and 2000-'04. Annie's grandson Barry is following in his father's footsteps and is currently secretary of the north Navan club. Barry is also a former PRO of Meath County Board. Another grandson Martin Gorman, a first cousin of Barry, was a star defender with Simonstown during the 1990's.

Paddy Tobin
The Simonstown Gaels club lost one of its most ardent supporters with the passing of Paddy Tobin in November.
A native of Maghera, outside Virginia, Paddy was a regular on the Cavan senior football panel during the seventies and his son Sean has inherited his gaelic football talent.
Born into a keen GAA family (brother Ambrose has played for Maghera and has held practically every official position with the east Cavan club), Paddy's ability on the football field was evident from a young age and in 1969 he was part of a Mullagh combination which annexed the Cavan minor championship.
Paddy won a Cavan junior medal with his club Maghera McFinns in 1973 and the McFinns followed this up by winning the intermediate title in '74.
It proved to be a momentous year for the late Paddy as that same autumn a Virginia parish amalgamation of Maghera, Virginia Blues and Lurgan, titled Ramor, won the Cavan senior football championship. Left footed Tobin, who often alternated between midfield and the half forward line, was one of the stars of the show.
Paddy's work took him to Navan where he married local girl Mary Dunne and the family happily settled on the Kingscourt Road.
During the late 1990's he became very active in the underage section of the nearby Simonstown club.
Son Sean was proving himself to be a chip off the old block and his age group won a number of competitions in the Royal County, starting at Under 12 level in 2003.
He had the honour of captaining Simonstown to their first ever Under 21 FC in 2012 and was a huge driving force from the middle of the field in the final against Donaghmore/Ashbourne. Like the old man, he has a more than useful left foot.
Sean's performances with the club resulted in his selection on Meath minor and under 21 squads and Paddy was a proud father when he was called up to the Royal County senior football squad for the 2013 season.
An ever-present at games, Paddy Tobin will be sorely missed around the Simonstown club and from the stands, terraces or grassy banks when the Gaels or Cavan or Meath are playing.
The Simonstown, Maghera McFinns and Ramor clubs formed guards of honour as Paddy was laid to rest.

James Kerr
Troytown Heights resident Jamsie was a regular at bingo in Simonstown Gaels and Navan O'Mahonys. He attended many GAA matches and enjoyed supporting his grandchildren. Jamsie's daughter Geraldine Moroney was the second recipient of Meath Ladies' 'Hall of Fame' award at their annual presentation earlier this year. A former secretary of Simonstown's ladies club, Geraldine also served as Meath county secretary for a number of years. Jamsie's brother, the late Joe, was another great servant of Simonstown while a nephew Billy Kerr, Joe's son, was a very productive forward for the town club during the 1980's

Frances Cremin
A resident of Silverlawns in Navan, Frances was a keen badminton player with Simonstown and also enjoyed supporting Meath's senior football team. Her son, Tim, played underage football with the Navan club.

Phelim Smyth
Phelim was reared in the St Mary's Park area of Navan and, on marrying, moved to nearby Blackcastle Estate. His father Felix was a star footballer for Castletown back in the 1940's. Phelim, like all his brothers, was a big sports fan and followed the fortunes of the Meath footballers.

Rose (Lolo) Duignan
Nee Kearney and formerly of Randlestown, Kilberry, Lolo's brother Eamonn has been a prominent member of Simonstown. Her nephew Ned Kearney captained the North Navan club to Meath IFC honours in 1995 and has represented Meath at minor, Under 21 and senior levels. He was a selector with the Simonstown senior team this year.

Patricia Hegarty
Patricia was a Fianna Fail member of Meath County Council from 1991 to 1999. A native of Wexford, she lived in St Mary's Park with her husband Michael who played football with Simonstown Gaels. Her family are supporters of the north Navan club.

Francie & Tera McDonagh
Husband and wife Francie and Tera passed away within weeks of one another this year. Their son Sean ('Rasher') has won numerous underage and adult accolades with Simonstown and lined out between the posts for the club's Junior C team this year. Francie's brother, Michael, also has a long involvement with Simonstown while his nephew Gerry is currently vice-chairman of the club. Tera was a sister of the late Michael Sweeney whose family have made a big contribution to Simonstown. A number of Francie and Tera's grandchildren have also played with the club.

Derek Fitzgerald
There was widespread sadness following the passing of Derek in April. Son of former Walterstown and Navan O'Mahonys footballer Derry and Carmel Fitzgerald, the Navan native had a keen interest in gaelic football and was also a lifelong supporter of Chelsea FC. He worked as a fitter in Tara Mines for over 20 years.

Shane McEntee
As the people of Castletown, Nobber and surrounding areas went about their business on Friday, December 21st last, little did they know about the terrible news that was about to unfold. At about 11.30am, information started coming through about the untimely death of our beloved friend and club colleague, Shane McEntee TD.
To say this was a shock would be an understatement. To us and, the community, Shane was a larger than life, unbreakable character.
Shane had a hello and a big smile for everyone, with nothing on his mind but helping and caring for those who crossed his path.
From his early days with Nobber GFC, he showed tremendous promise and ability. He lined out in two minor finals with Dee Rangers but, undoubtedly, his greatest day on the football field came when Nobber won the Intermediate championship in 1980.
We will never forget Shane's unbridled joy after that victory and his great enthusiasm for the celebrations that followed.
As we set out to play Senior championship football, Shane was the driving force.
He derived great pleasure from our first and only Feis Cup Final appearance against Skryne in 1983. On that occasion Shane, who captained the side, implored the selectors to play him at full forward, promising he would win the cup for us from that position … and he duly did! Again days of celebrations followed culminating in a trip to Fairyhouse Races with Shane proudly carrying the Feis Cup.
Unfortunately, Shane's playing career came to an untimely end when he suffered a very serious leg injury while taking part in a challenge match against the Cavan Juniors in 1984.
He then turned his attention to life at committee and management level where he proved an outstanding success. He was a great man for the players, championing their needs on every possible occasion.
He was also an outstanding manager, taking Syddan and Ballinlough to championship success and was involved with a host of other clubs.
Along the way he also found time to manage the Meath minors.
Shane was a very proud man when his brothers, Gerry and Andrew, played key roles in Meath's emergence, winning the All Irelands of 1987/1988.
At all levels Shane's commitment to our club, community, county and country were enormous.
We can but only pass on our heartfelt condolences to Kathleen, Aoife, Vincent, Helen, Sally, Mother Madge, Shane's brothers, sister and extended family.
You will never be forgotten.

Sean Lambe
There was further shock on December, 26th when Nobber lost another great Gael with the sudden passing of Sean Lambe, Rahood.
A contemporary of Shane McEntee's on the local football teams of the seventies and eighties, Sean was a forward and a panellist when the Intermediate championship was won in 1980.
He also won a Feis Cup Medal in 1983 by which time he was playing centre half-back when Nobber beat Skyrne.
Sean, who was 55 year of age, played underage football with the local club and before his 17th birthday, he had joined the adult team at Junior B Level
He also played in the 1977 Intermediate final when Dunshaughlin beat Nobber. Sean went on to play in three senior championship semi-finals in the eighties.
When his playing days finished, Sean delighted in recording club games and successes and presented various recordings of club activities when it was celebrating anniversaries and jubilees.
Sean was educated in Nobber and Navan and worked in Gypsum Industries Ltd, Kingscourt.
To his wife Eileen, family Aisling, Eimear and Aoife, relatives and friends, Nobber G.F.C. convey their sincere condolences.

Mona McEntee
A loved member of an old Nobber family, Mona was a sister of the late Tony McEntee and aunt of Gerry, Shane (RIP), Larry, Andrew, Tony, Jimmy, Alan and Mary McEntee.
(Our thanks to Nobber PRO George Kellett)

Philomena (Philly) Eiffe
The Eiffe family name is synonymous with Ratoath GAA club. Philomena was a sister of former Meath player Bill, Noel, who refereed all the matches on Meath's historic trip to Australia in 1968 and the late Andy who was chairman of the local club for many years. Ratoath GAA's grounds are named in honour of her nephew Sean, Andy's son.

Bridie Rogers
A native of Granard, Co Longford, Bridie's son Francis Rogers is the juvenile chairman of Ratoath GAA club.

Brendan Halpin
Brendan's brother Brian is an underage mentor with Ratoath and former Juvenile chairman.

Mella Everard
Wife of the late Tommy, Mella's sons Paul and Martin both both played football with Ratoath.

Aidan Conway (Ratoath)
There was widespread shock and sadness in Ratoath at the sudden passing of Aidan Conway in October, aged just 61.
After growing up on Glascarn Lane on the outskirts of the village, he and his wife, Alice, built their own home on the same lane in 1982, where they had two children.
Aidan had a lifelong connection with Ratoath GAA. He played juvenile football with the club before moving into the adult ranks. By all accounts, he was an extremely talented corner back.
He was a member of the Ratoath panel which won the 1970 Junior football championship, beating Cortown in the "A" final, before defeating Navan O'Mahony's in the final itself.
When his playing days were finished, he would regularly volunteer to assist at games and events held in the club. Aidan was always the "go-to guy" when help was needed in the club as he would willingly assist when needed. Indeed, just weeks before his death, he could be seen assisting with car parking and acting as an umpire at the All Ireland Intermediate football 7's tournament held in the club.
On the intercounty scene, Aidan was a dedicated supporter of the Meath footballers since the 1960s. One of his most treasured memories was attending each game of the epic Meath - Dublin saga in 1991.
He passed this dedication down to his son and they have been season ticket holders and Club na Mí members and both would travel anywhere in the country to see Meath play a game, whether it was championship, league or O'Byrne Cup.
Aidan is survived by his wife, Alice; his children, Aoife and Daragh; his brothers, Pádraig, Noel and Brian and his sister Nuala. A true gentleman, he will be greatly missed by his wide circle of family and friends.
His coffin was draped in a "half and half" Meath and Ratoath flag (provided by the club) and players and members of Ratoath GAA gave him a guard of honour from the church to the cemetery. Aidan's family would like to thank the club for these gestures and the great support they have provided during this immensely difficult time.

Padraig Halton (Cavan/Ratoath)
A native of Lough Gowna in Cavan, Padraig settled in Ratoath around 1980 and played over a number of years with his adopted club. Back in the Breffni County he is best remembered for the fantastic goal he scored for Arva in the 1972 Cavan IFC final at Breffni Park. His brother Seamus is currently the treasurer of Gowna while his nephew Damien lined out for the club's senior team. Padraig was a former member of An Garda Siochana. He also made a name for himself as a very successful businessman after establishing Halton Concrete which is a well-known company in the construction industry. After he finished playing, Padraig remained a great supporter of Ratoath and helped out the club financially.

Bridget "Aggie" Donohoe
(Shraigh Hill/Bunnawillian/ Ratoath)
The passing of Aggie Donohoe, aged 90, after a short illness brought with it great sadness around Ratoath.
Aggie was born in Shraigh Hill, near Belmullet, Co. Mayo. She married Anthony in 1945 and they moved to nearby Bunawillian. In 1953, thanks to the Land Commission, their family settled on the Fairyhouse Road in Ratoath and there she stayed until her death.
She was a loving mother of 10 as well as a wonderful grandmother, great-grandmother, mother-in-law and aunt. Aggie lived her life to the fullest, regularly undertaking outings with the ICA and Active Age and rarely missing Bingo on a Sunday night, even in her 91st year.
Many of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren are heavily involved in Ratoath GAA club. Though she lived in Meath for over 60 years, she never lost her Mayo accent and come championship time, the green and red would fly proudly outside her home.
Aggie will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Our thanks to Vincent Donnelly and Ratoath GAA for all the help with the obituaries included.

Mary Nevin
A native of Donegal, Mary's husband Jim was actively involved with the Moynalty over a number of years and served for a period as club chairman. Her son, Jimmy, won a Junior Championship medal in 1987 and is still involved with the club on various committees while another son, Terry, also played his part during his playing days.
Grandsons James, Robert, Anthony and Shane are all talented footballers and line out with a number of club sides. Mary's brother James was a talented player with Moynalty when he resided in the area for a period during the late 1960's.

Paraic McEntee
A great Moynalty and Meath supporter, Paraic was a popular and valued playing member of the club at underage and adult level during the eighties and nineties. His brother Seamus captained Moynalty to the Junior title in 1987 and also won a Leinster Minor Championship medal with Meath in 1977. Seamus is currently involved with the St Vincent's club in Ardcath while their nephew Alan Clarke was team captain of the Cavan senior football side in 2013.

Marian Lynch
A talented footballer, Marian was on the Cormeen team that won the first Meath Ladies Senior Championship title in 1976 and they retained their crown in 1977. Marian's son Adrian is a dedicated and long serving playing member and lined out in the half back-line for Moynalty in the 2013 Meath Junior B final versus Boardsmill. Her husband Mick played with Cormeen and Moynalty and sons, Damian and Neville, also played their part with the Moynalty club at underage level.

Fr Michael Murchan
The Murchan family have given great service to the Moynalty club over a number of years. Fr Murchan's brother Paddy was in charge of juvenile sides in Moynalty for many years and is currently an Honorary President of the club. Fr Murchan's nephews, Michael, John, Peter, Damian and Louis, were all actively involved with the club during their playing days. In recent times Peter Murchan has acted as team doctor for the successful Tipperary hurlers.

PJ Hynes
Great Meath supporters, the Hynes family moved to Moynalty, from Ballinlough, in the late sixties and made a significant contribution to the Moynalty club in their time. PJ's brother Kieran played at minor level with Meath and was an outstanding underage player with Moynalty. His other brothers, Brendan and the late Petey, also lined out regularly with the club in their playing days.

Kathleen Nevin
Kathleen's grand-daughter Fiona was a very talented underage player with the club and regularly helps out in her role as physiotherapist with various club teams. Grandson Fintan has been an active club member over many years and continues to tog out with the Junior team when available.
(Thanks to Michael Casey and Moynalty GFC)

Monica Lynch
There was widespread shock on the sudden death of Monica in September throughout the Dunshaughlin/Drumree area and wider afield. Monica was very actively involved in the community as she was one of the driving forces in renovating Cullmullen Hall in recent years, together with Eleanor Delaney, who sadly passed away a year ago. She was very supportive of her husband, Johnny, who was a chairman of Drumree football and hurling club. Johnny and her sons also played for the club, winning many titles over the years.

Anthony (Fred) Walsh
A native of Culmullen, Drumree, Anthony was a dedicated supporter of the Meath senior football team. He travelled far and wide to enjoy a game and even kept the ticket stubs for all the games he attended. In his younger days, Anthony played for St Martin's and then went on to line out in goals for Drumree for many years.
(Thanks to Drumree secretary Rosaleen Rooney)

Drumbaragh GAA club would like to extend their sympathies to the families of the following:

Paul Carry
Paul's son Luke, current club PRO, and nephew Paddy Murray were both members of the successful Drumbaragh junior football squad this year. Gaeil Colmcille goalkeeper Justin Carry-Lynch, a member of the Meath senior football panel in 2012, is also a nephew while Paul's daughter Ruth plays football with Gaeil Colmcille.

Mary Forde
Mother of former players John, Hugh and Jim and grandmother of current players Brian, Colin and Sean Forde.

Larry Smith
Former Drumbaragh player throughout the fifties.

Tommy Cooney
Father-in-law of current chairman Niall Carry and father of Julie.

Eileen Doyle
Eileen was a member of the McGowan family of Drumbaragh. Wife of former player Jim, who was a member of the 1975 team, and mother of current player Andrew.
Alphonsis Stewart
Father of former players, Martin and Sharon, and father-in-law of club stalwart Pat Carry.

Eddie Kelly
Eddie's son Paul was a former treasurer and player with Drumbaragh.

Ned Joyce
A former player with Drumbaragh throughout the fifties.

Austin Smith
Played with Drumbaragh throughout the fifties.

Margaret Grimes
Her sons Declan and Paddy played with the club
(Thanks to Peter Carry and Emmett Og, Drumbaragh)

Sarah Nugent
Sarah was a member of the Murtagh family from Proudstown in Navan and her three sons, Thomas, Peter and Patrick, are players with Carnaross. Her husband Peadar is one of the club's presidents. Sarah was a keen football supporter and attended all games and functions.

Pat Nugent
Pat played with Carnaross and was a brother-in-law of the aforementioned Sarah Nugent.

Tommy Reilly
Tommy was the brother of Carnaross county board delegate Christy Reilly.
Carnaross GFC

The St. Brigid's club Ballinacree offer their deepest sympathies to the families of the following:

Kathleen and Delia Nulty
Kathleen and Delia were sisters in law. Kathleen's sons Patrick and Laurence both played for the Brigid's

Sadie Fitzsimons
A sister of Vincent Walsh, a long time servant of the club and the aunt of club stalwarts Nobby and Vincent Walsh junior.

Bridie Plunkett
Bridie's children and grandchildren have played with the Brigid's. One of these, George has been involved with various Meath underage squads. Nee Sheerin, Bridie was a very popular and active member of the local community. She was to the fore on many committees, one of which purchased the local hall for the parish from the VEC. A keen follower of the Brigid's club, also a big Meath supporter, manys the prayer that was said by Mrs Plunkett when the game was close. Bridie will be missed by all in the area

Hal and Betty Porter
Their nephew Robert Porter played for the club.

Eithne Smith
Eithne was the aunt of well known St Brigid's player and Meath underage star Sean Treacy.

Rose Dempsey
A sister of Mickey Gannell who played for the club.

Tom Kelly
From Castlecor, the Kelly family were always great supporters of St. Brigid's Ballinacree.

Margaret Farrelly
Margaret was married to former St.Brigid's footballer Michal Farrelly. She is a sister of former Oldcastle player T.P. Fox.

Brian Daly
Stood between the Ballinacree posts for years. Brian was an outstanding goalkeeper who gave great service to St. Brigid's, on and off the field of play. A well known north Meath personality, huge crowds attended the funeral of Brianie. He will be sadly missed by all in the area.

Margaret Maguire
Margaret was the wife of Seamus Maguire, one of the famous Maguire footballing brothers. Three members of his family played in the drawn and replayed All Ireland finals of 1952 and on opposing sides. Des and Liam represented their native Cavan while the younger Brendan lined out for Meath. Seamus also pulled on the Cavan jersey and like his brothers played for famed Cornafean in the Breffni county. Margaret and Seamus' sons Des, Jim and Michael all lined out with St. Brigid's while Des played minor for Meath back in the early 1970's
Our thanks to Catherine Fanning and Barry Kevin for all their help.

Catherine (Kitty) Nelson
(Kilmainham)
Kitty's son Jimmy and grandson Joe Gillespie both played for Kilmainham.
Kilmainham GFC.

Peter Clarke (Castlemartin)
From an old Castlemartin family, part of Bohermeen parish, Peter worked in Navan Carpets for over 30 years. A big follower of the GAA, he kept a close eye on the fortunes of all local teams be they, Ultan's, Tones or the old Martry and Bohermeen combinations. Peter was, of course, a big supporter of the Meath footballers.
Nancy Sheerin (Castletown)
Nancy (nee Weldon) passed away after a short illness on the 18th August 2013. She was the church sacristan in Castletown for over 30 years. Nancy was pre deceased by her husband Ned at an early age in 1971. Ned played many a game at corner back for Castletown, a position one of his sons Gerrard also played in for the club. The Sheerin family are great supporters of our club and Nancy's grandsons are part of our underage teams. May she rest in peace.

Corby Hoey (Castletown)
It was with great shock and sadness when we learned of the untimely death of Corby Hoey in his 46th year. Corby and his company CF Hoey Construction have been a major sponsor and a great supporter of our club and the Meath team and is still currently the main club sponsor. Corby's sons Francis and Robert are current members of our intermediate panel. Testimony to Corby's popularity and respect was the thousands of people who attended his wake and funeral while Castletown GFC formed a Guard of Honour. Ar dheis De go raibh a ainm.

Jennifer Kerr (Dunmoe, Navan)
Jennifer Kerr (nee Bellew) came from Knightstown and her family have been associated with Castletown GFC for many years. Jennifer played for the Castletown ladies team in years gone by and her father Paul held many positions including chairman over the years. In his later life he would be seen taking his seat at county board meetings and fighting his corner for our club. Presently Jennifer's brothers Liam and Francis are involved in Castletown and her nephews play underage football for the club. Her mother Mary is an honorary president. May she rest in peace.

Mark Quinn (Castletown)
Mark whose untimely death occurred in 2013 played underage football for Castletown GFC. His family have been great supporters of the club over the years. May he rest in peace.

Shane McEntee (Castletown)
In December 2012 the news of Shane's death came as a major shock to the local area. Though he was associated with Nobber, Shane lived in Castletown all his married life and his son Vincent played underage football with Castletown GFC. In 1996 Shane trained Castletown to an Intermediate football final against Simonstown which Simonstown won by a narrow margin. Indeed he still had an interest in the club up until his untimely death. Shortly before he met with club officials with regards to acquiring funding for renovation at our club facilities. Ar dheis De go raibh ainm
Obituaries kindly written by Pat McMahon, ---Castletown GFC

David Drew
The untimely and tragic loss of Davy at the age of 26 last December had a profound effect not only on the Gaeil Colmcille club but on the whole parish of Kells and surrounding areas.
Davy was a very popular club member who simply loved his sport. He was an excellent goalkeeper and was the club's number one since the age of 16. David excelled in this position in both GAA and soccer from a young age and won many titles at underage, representing Meath in GAA and Drogheda Utd at soccer.
For the past 10 years he had kept goal as the Gaeils fought to return to senior ranks and was a vital player in the 2011 run to the IFC final and success in the A League Division 3.
The club's win in this year's IFC was dedicated to Davy by team captain Gary Arkins while Davy's father, Tony, helped to lift the Mattie McDonnell cup in Pairc Tailteann on the day.
This was a fitting tribute to a player who remains in everyone's thoughts and who would have thoroughly enjoyed this success.
In recent years David coached the clubs ladies team and was making great progress. His work with this group had seen more numbers getting out to play and his coaching was enjoyed by all who took part.
Davy's talents will never be replaced and his presence in the dressing room will always be missed.
 
Laurence (Larry) Smith
Larry was a life long member of the Gaeil Colmcille club and was heavily involved in the club since it was founded in 1964. Earlier Larry had played most of his football with Drumbaragh.
He would have been a proud man that week in September when Drumbaragh and Gaeils pulled off that remarkable junior - intermediate double.
For many years he held the role of caretaker in the club. This was at a time when the Meath team played all their home games in Kells and Larry took great pride in the upkeep of the club facilities.
He enjoyed playing pitch & putt too and would often been seen out on the club's course in the summer evenings.
The Smith family always had a great association with Gaeil Colmcille and Larry's sons and grandsons have gone on to play for the club with distinction in the eighties and nineties and up to today.
Son Paul 'Smiley' Smith featured on the successful 1986 intermediate team and the Keegan Cup winning side of 1991 while another son Gerry also lined out at senior level for the town combination.
Gerry was a tremendous worker behind the scenes with the Gaeils team during the year gone. Grandson Barry Smith (Gerry's son) was midfield on that intermediate winning side.
Larry was an uncle of Gaeil Colmcille stalwart Benny Reddy while other grandsons, Michael and Ciaran Rogers, played football with Simonstown.
His passing in January was a great loss to the club and his many years of dedicated service will forever be remembered and appreciated by Gaeil Colmcille members.

Dick Dardis
Dick's son Barry played hurling and football with Gaeil Colmcille while his grandsons Paul and Barry Tormey and Fionn, Cormac and Liam Ferguson currently line out for the Kells club. Well-known Gaeil Colmcille official and former star player Conor Ferguson was a son-in-law of Dick's. Conor's wife Olivia was a very useful camogie player.

Paddy & Patricia Bennett
Paddy and Patricia's grandson, Martin Barrett, was full-forward on the Intermediate winning Gaeil Colmcille team. Paddy and Patricia's son Harry has sons playing underage with Gaeil Colmcille

Sean Hetherton
Sean of Balrath Road, Kells was known far and wide for his garage business, which he operated for over four decades. He hailed from Ballydurrow, County Cavan, close to the Cavan/Meath border, and played football for local club Munterconnaught alongside his brothers Liam, Michael and Seamus.
Sean was good enough to win a county minor medal and he remained a keen supporter of Cavan GAA throughout his life. He was especially proud of the role his brother, Fr Seamus, played on the Cavan All-Ireland winning team of 1952. Sean continued to be a loyal supporter of the GAA long after he stopped playing and travelled to matches all over the country.

Edward (Nedo) Molloy
Nedo was a brother of well-known Kells handballers John Boy and the late Liam. He played handball himself with the Kells club into his twenties and won county championships. Nedo lived in England for 12 years where he worked with Billy Smart's Circus and was also a keen golfer. His nephews Gary Arkins and Declan Smith were key players for Gaeil Colmcille in the year gone.

Ray McLoughlin
Navan resident Ray spent his early life in Carrick Street, Kells and played gaelic football for the local team. In the late fifties, he emigrated to England where he worked for a number of years and joined Garryowen GFC in Hammersmith. As a player and a committee member, he played a leading role in raising the club's profile. On returning to Ireland he settled in Navan. Ray's main passion in life was the GAA and the Meath team and he spent many nights at training in Dalgan Park and Pairc Tailteann. He travelled the length and breadth of the country supporting the Royal County.

Martin Grace
The parish of Kells was shocked by the sudden passing of Martin back in September. He had worked as parish secretary since 1977 and was a very popular member of the local community. An avid supporter of Gaelic football, he followed the Meath football team around the country.

Cathy Gaynor
Cathy was 98 years of age when she passed away in August. From an old Kells family, her son Mattie is one of Meath's most loyal supporters.
(Thanks to Joe Flanagan and the Gaeil Colmcille club for all asistance provided)

Kathleen Harding
Kathleen (Kitty) was the wife of Slane GFC trustee and long-serving clubman Gerry Harding. Gerry is a member of the Harding family which is central to much of the history of Slane GFC and he was on the 1952 team which won the junior championship and then later served as chairman of the club. Kitty too was a great supporter of the club.

Peter Hevey
Peter's sons David and Ivan played football with the local Slane club.

James Gargan
The community of Slane was stunned by the death of James in a road traffic accident in the village during late 2012. Jem, as he was affectionately known, was a great lover of the GAA and was a frequent visitor to Croke Park to cheer on Meath football teams.
(Thanks to secretary John Greene and Slane GFC)

Christy Dolan
Christy was a founder member of Moylagh in 1947 and was one of the club's most prominent footballers, lining out at midfield. He later became involved with St Paul's in Clonmellon and held numerous positions, including chairman, within the Westmeath club. In fact, the power for the club's floodlights for many years was supplied by Christy's house next door. His son Eugene represented the Lake County in both football and hurling and won nine Westmeath SHC medals with Brownstown.

Michael Gilsenan
Michael likewise was a founding member of Moylagh GAA club in 1947 and lined out in goal with the club during the early years.
(Our thanks to Moylagh PRO Brian Farrelly)

Reggie Coffey
Reggie played minor football with Ballinabrackey and also served as club treasurer for a number of years.

Tommy Haughton
Tommy represented Ballinabrackey up to minor level before emigrating to London for work. But he continued to return home for any important game involved Ballinabrackey or Meath.
(Thanks to Tommy Quinn and Ballinabrackey GFC)

Jenny Thompson
Predeceased by her husband Jim, son Joe and daughter Patricia, Jenny's son Seamus (Seamie) was a corner-back on the 1986 Summerhill championship winning team. Other sons Mark, Billy and Jonathan also played underage and Junior B football for the 'Hill.

Ellie Lyons
A native of Castlebar, Ellie was predeceased by her husband Austin. Sons Austin and Paddy were members of the great Summerhill team of the seventies and Austin, as a teenager, was a member of the Meath squad that captured All-Ireland glory in 1967. Another son, John, lined out at centre half forward on the Summerhill team that won the Keegan Cup in 1986 and guided Na Fianna to this year's SFC decider.

Mary Murtagh
Formerly from Bohola, Co Mayo, Mary in recent years resided in Maynooth. Predeceased by her husband Johnny, two of her four sons, Denis and Tommy, won SFC medals with Summerhill in 1986.
(Thanks to Mattie Kerrigan and the Summerhill club)

Padraig Dixon
Padraig was the son of the legendary Paddy 'Stonewall' Dixon, centre half back on the great Meath team of the late forties and early fifties. He played under age with Ballivor but in later years became heavily involved in rugby, his sporting love. Padraig played with Athboy RC and later became attached to the Navan club. He founded Dixon Sand and Gravel and was a very generous employer.

Katie Doyle
Katie was the mother of Paddy Doyle, a star player with Ballivor who later became a very successful manager of the club. Paddy also served the west county club in a number of official capacities.

Kathleen Molloy
Kathleen was a sister in law of Katie Doyle (see above) and mother of the late Patsy Molloy, a member of the Ballivor intermediate winning squad of 1971.

Anne Feeney
Anne was the mother of Richard Feeney, a former star player with Ballivor.
Thanks to Anne Corrigan of Ballivor GAA for all her help

Jack Leahy (Navan)
A native of Ballymaurice, Granard, Co Longford, Jack emigrated to England in the 1950s. He was very involved in the Irish community in Britain and often had large crowds gathering at his house on Sundays as he had one of the few radios which could receive Radio Eireann and the gaelic football matches from Ireland. Jack helped establish St Catherine's Club in West Drayton in the 1960s and also served on the committee of St Claret's Men's Club in Hayes for many years, holding the position of vice chairman for a period. He founded the St Claret's tug-of-war team which became very successful. In 1980, Jack came home to Ireland, and bought Newgate Stores, outside Navan. Being back in Ireland allowed him to travel all over the country to watch football, particularly Meath. He could converse extensively about football and the players both past and present.

William Scully (Oldcastle)
Billy was a dedicated supporter of Meath GAA teams.

Fr Owen O'Leary (Dalgan Park)
Fr Owen, ssc, St Columban's, Dalgan Park, was very proud of his Kerry roots and the Dr Crokes GAA club in Killarney for whom he had played and whose jersey was placed on his coffin.

Kaline Murray (Navan & Drogheda)
Nee Plunkett and from an old Navan family, Kaline, and her husband Jim, were heavily involved with the Wolfe Tones club in her adopted town of Drogheda.

Rose Heaney
Rose was the matriarch of the well-known GAA family from Kilberry. She was the mother of long standing Wolfe Tones delegate Owen Heaney, proud members Padraig and Brian and loyal supporters Fr Sean, Fr Seamus, Nuala, Roisin, Mairead, Micheal, Dympna and Theresa.
Fr Sean was chairman of the Offaly County Board when the Faithful County famously denied Kerry a famous five-in-a-row of All-Ireland SFC titles back in 1982. He was also in charge when the Faithful County won their first All Ireland senior hurling title the previous September.
Fr Seamus, meanwhile, has served Meath County Board in a number of capacities, including that of vice chairman.

John Lynam
John was a brother of Wolfe Tones club members Terry, Michael and Tom and an uncle of former players Terence, Frankie and Fergal.

Jean McFadden
Mother-in-law of former Wolfe Tones player Gerry Thompson and aunt of past player and senior team selector Michael McFadden.

Sile Bowler
Sile's brother Liam played with Wolfe Tones.

Patricia Blaney
Mother of former Wolfe Tones player Oliver and mother-in-law of Sean Halloran who was a star midfielder with the club back in the 1970's.

Patsy Halligan
Patsy's son Derek is a Wolfe Tones mentor and loyal member.

Sister Catheran Kitty McFadden
Aunt of former Wolfe Tones player and senior team selector Michael McFadden.

Eily May Harrington
Aunt of county player Eoghan and Eanna Harrington who play for the Wolfe Tones senior team.
(Thanks to secretary Michael Carr and the Wolfe Tones club for their assistance)

Lilly Halpenny
Lily sadly passed away in June and, along with her late husband Tom, was a lifelong supporter of Drumconrath. She has numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren involved in the club. Her son-in-law, Michael Gallagher, is the current chairman of Drumconrath and grandson Micheal is secretary. Grandsons Leighton, Kevin, Terence and Thomas are all involved with the north Meath outfit's adult teams while she has many great grandchildren who play in the underage ranks. Liz endured many personal tragedies late in her life but performed with dignity and grace throughout, being an inspiration to many in the parish and beyond. She is survived by her brother Terry and children, Mary, Lizzy, Trisha, Sheila, Joan, Terence and Laurence.
(Thanks to Dumconrath GAA club)

Clonard GAA send their deepest sympathies to the families of the following:

Sean Campbell
(Clonard)
Sean was chairman of the Clonard club when they won their first championship in 1971 and held that position for a number of years. His brothers, Eddie and Finn, are also heavily involved with the south Meath unit while nephews, Eamon, Ian, David and Alan, have all worn the club colours with distinction. Sean's sister, Josephine, is married to Thomas Clynch who has a long association with the Simonstown club.

Dan Walsh
Dan was President of the club for many years.

John Plunkett
John was a past player with the Clonard club.

Joe Dixon
Passed away this year.

Terry Coyne
A members of the 1961 team, Terry lived in America.

Verdie McGuinness
Sadly passed away in America.

James Thornton
A noted singer, Jimmy played football in his younger years with Moynalvey. His two sons also lined out with the club, while his grand daughters Emma and Ciara are current players.

Kevin Clarke
Kevin's son Damian is involved with the Moynalvey juvenile section and his grandson Evan currently plays with the club.

Kathleen Thornton
Mother of former player Eddie who is a keen Moynalvey supporter. Kathleen was a sister in law of the aforementioned James Thornton
Laurence Dixon
Laurence, aged 70, passed away in August. He was an avid supporter of both Moynalvey GFC and Kiltale HC. Son Brendan is a current player while another son, Damien, is a former player and selector with the present Moynalvey senior football team. Moynalvey GFC provided a guard of honour at Laurence's removal.
(Thanks to secretary Kathleen McDermott and Moynalvey GFC)

Tom O'Neill
A native of Kilbride, Dunderry, Tom was a loyal, hard working and dedicated club member over many years who neither sought or courted recognition for the many hours of voluntary work carried out on behalf of Dunderry GAA club. The fruits of his labour are still there to be seen and shall remain for many a year to come. Tom's great love of Dunderry GAA has been passed on to his son Georgie who has carried on the great legacy of involvement in the club.

Alacoque Coffey
Alacoque was the mother of three stars of Dunderry football in the sixties and seventies, Pat, Francie and Joseph. Alacoque was a dedicated club member and supporter of Dunderry throughout her life and passed her love of Dunderry down to her siblings.

Dinny Feeney
Dinny's sudden and unexpected passing dimmed a bright light that will never be extinguished to all of those who were honoured to have known him or befriended him. The light may flicker occasionally but remembering his greeting smile, the twinkle in his eyes and words of encouragement that glow, will go on for eternity. A life long member of Dunderry GAA club, he wore the club colours with pride, dignity and honour.

Dunderry GAA club would like to extend their sympathies to the families and friends of the following members of their club who have suffered bereavement during 2013 - the Fitzgerald family, Robinstown; Clarke family, Bellewstown, Robinstown; Michael and Tom Sherry, originally from Eskeroon, Yellow Walls who played with Dunderry for many years; Martin McDonagh, Tullaghanogue, Kilbride. That little word for everyone will always be remembered, a life long member who wore the black and white jersey of Dunderry with pride.
(Thanks to Michael Minogue and Dunderry GAA)

Mary Clinton
The matriarch of a popular Donore family, Mary's late son Joseph played for St Mary's and the Joey Clinton Cup - which is presented to underage winning teams - honours his memory. Joey was awarded the Young Player of the Year award in 1985 and was a member of the St Mary's team that reached the Meath IFC final in 1985. Her other sons, Michael, James, Oliver and Henry, all played at different levels for the Donore club while Michael and Oliver are former committee members. Oliver acted as a selector when St Mary's captured A League football honours in 2010. Mary's granddaughters - Ceire Cudden and Siobhan Clinton - are continuing the family tradition and currently serve as secretary and treasurer respectively of the club.
St Marys GAA

Skryne GFC wish to express their sympathy to the family and friends of the following:
 
Sean O'Brien - Acted as a selector on the Skryne team of the sixties and was a committee member for many years. His brothers Micheal and Dom played for Skryne and Meath with distinction for a number of years with Micheal winning All Ireland SF medals in 1949 and 1954.
 
Miriam Hogan - Cousin of Michael and Peter who played for Skryne at juvenile and adult level  for many years.
 
Kevin Lynch - Grand uncle of former Skryne secretary and player Michael Lynch. Kevin played for Rathfeigh in the early fifties.
 
Paddy Daly - Great Skryne supporter all his long life and played both football and hurling for the club in the thirties.
 
Mary Staunton - Mother of Michael and Kieran who both played for Skryne. Michael won an All Ireland Colleges medal with St Jarlath's Tuam in 1960.

Cyril (Sonny) Reeves - A Kildare man who followed his county through good and a lot of bad times for over 70 years. He also took a keen interest in the affairs of Skryne GFC as his three grandsons Allan, Cyril and Darren Carty played at all levels for the club from under 12 right up to senior. All three have won league and championship medals with Skryne. Allan winning SFC medals in 1999, 2004 and 2010 was a source of great delight to Sonny.
 
Oliver McDonnell - Oliver was very much involved in Skryne GFC from a very young age, right up to the time of his sudden and unexpected death. He played at all levels for the club, from juvenile to senior, winning an under 21 medal in 1995 and starring in goals on the winning Feis Cup team of 1998. Oliver was an excellent fundraiser for the club and also did great work for the Irish Guide Dogs foundation.
 
Ed McKeown -  Father of Robert and Martin who play football for Skryne.
 Colm Hanley - Father of Colm who is a valued member of Skryne GFC committee. His granddaughters play for Skryne Ladies.
 
Bridie Farnan - Sister of former Skryne player Jimmy who won a Senior Championship medal with the club in 1954.
 
Dermot McAuley - Grandfather of Shane who presently plays underage football for Skryne.
 
Rose Crocock - Wife of the late Jimmy Crocock who supported Skryne all his life.
 
Mary Blaney - Wife of ardent Skryne follower, the late Johnny and mother of John who has been involved with both Skryne and Dunboyne recently.
 
Des McCann - Former Westmeath footballer and father of George who won underage championship medals with Skryne.
 
Gerry Stafford - Played with St Michaels' in his youth and for the last fifteen years lived in and supported Skryne up to his untimely death.
 
Fergal O'Reilly - Father of Ciaran, John, Brendan (Barney), Michael and Paul who all played for Skryne. Michael, the most successful of the five brothers, has played all grades of football and won Championship medals with the Club. He is presently playing his football in London.
Thanks to Dermot Carty and Skryne GFC for all their help.

David Tuite
There was a deep sense of loss and sadness in our community and the surrounding areas with the untimely passing of David Tuite. David died suddenly on 25th February this year, in the prime of his life, just 35 years of age.
David was very energetic with a chirpy personality and loved playing jokes on people. He played underage football with St. Vincent's for a number of years, leading an active life. However his greatest passion was car racing and particularly F1.
Life changed completely for David in 2001 following a serious accident at work. This life changing event did not deter him from leading an independent existence with the support of his family, in his own house. His independence blossomed as he continued to drive and socialise in his flashy car. David enjoyed looking after his flock of fowl and took great pride in his garden.
His death suddenly this year was due to a complication concerning that brain injury.
David is deeply missed by his mother Vida, sister Caroline and brother Alan, and his many friends and relations.

Patrick Arnold
There was great shock and sadness over a wide area, spanning many counties following the death of Sonny Arnold on the 27th May last. Sonny passed away in his 85th year under the care of staff in St. Mary's Hospital, Drogheda. For a number of months prior to hospitalisation Sonny was lovingly cared for at home by his family.
Sonny was affectionately known as "Sunshine" , always sporting a radiant smile and an outstretched hand of friendship.
He was a well known cattle dealer, attending fairs and marts throughout the country, where he made many connections. His years of experience with cattle set him up nicely as a much in demand judge of cattle at various shows. Sonny was also a "fat stock exhibitor" at various shows, winning many awards and prized trophies.
Sonny had a great zest for life and his greatest means of enjoyment was sweeping the floor with Bernie as they demonstrated their talent as ballroom dancers.
He took great pride in his family, supporting their every career move. His son Patrick is a current player with St. Vincent's.
Sonny is survived by his wife Bernie, daughter Breda, son Patrick, sisters Nuala and Vera and his many relatives and friends.

Olivia Sheridan
There was widespread sadness in the parish of Ardcath/Clonalvy and the adjoining parishes following the death of Olivia on 5th April this year.
Following a brave and dignified battle with ill health, Olivia died peacefully at home in the loving care of her family. Despite her illness she was always in good form, with a very positive outlook. Olivia had an infectious smile and maintained a gentle disposition, always seeing the good in people. She tended her garden and updated her book keeping accounts right to the end.
She led a very active life, producing a winning performance with Ardcath Pioneer Association in "Tops of the Town" in Drogheda in 1976. Also in the early 70s she graced the fields of east Meath representing Vincent's in ladies football. Her sons Ronan and Ciaran followed in her footsteps and at present play with St Vincent's.
Olivia was an active member of Ardcath ICA, representing the guild in many talent shows and dancing competitions. She loved cycling and was an energetic member of the local "Well Oiled Wheelers" cycling club, completing many fundraising cycles.
Another of her favourite pastimes was attending race meetings with Martin. This gave her immense satisfaction especially when their horse Sam-Ollie (named after their grand children) was a runner.
After a few wins Martin presented Olivia with her own horse which they named after her, called "Lilly's Prince". Those race outings gave Olivia a platform to sport her undoubted fashion couture.
In between all of that Olivia practiced and sang twice a week with Ardcath Church Choir, performing with the "Welsh Choir" and for all church occasions and events.
Olivia took immense pride in her family, following and supporting them through their educational and sporting careers. She was especially close to her grandchildren, spending much time babysitting, visiting and caring for them.
Olivia's family and Martin's family span the parishes of Ardcath and Garristown, and represent all that is good in rural Ireland, from sport to volunteerism.
Olivia is survived by her husband Martin, daughter Sinead, sons Ronan, Ciaran and Darragh, brothers Seamus, Nicky and Michael, sisters Una and Mary, grandchildren, daughters-in-law and her extended family and friends.
Olivia's funeral was one of the biggest funerals in recent years. This included an impressive guard of honour by the local ICA Guild and the "Well Oiled Wheelers" on her journey from Ardcath Church and by Garristown GFC as she reached her final resting place in Garristown Cemetery.
Compiled by Brian Carberry, St Vincents GAA

Peter O'Toole,
Kilbreena / Foliestown
Peter was a dual player for long number of years with St Peter's, remembered for his high catches at full back in football and running game in hurling. Peter won a Junior Football and Intermediate Hurling championship medals in 1962. Peter also enjoyed his horse racing and many other sporting activities.

Jim Reilly
The Dunboyne clubman was a versatile player, starring in defence and attack in major successes. The high point of his career came in 1954 when, filling the centre half-back position, the Royal County lifted the Sam Maguire Cup for the second time.
After victories over Wicklow, Kildare, Longford and Offaly in Leinster and Cavan in the penultimate round of the championship, Meath went into the All-Ireland final against Kerry as rank outsiders.
Eight of the history-making team of 1949 were still there five years later with Reilly in the middle of an entirely new half-back line. Kevin Lenehan and Ned Durnin were on the wings.
Jim, a noted athlete in his younger days, recovered from an injury which forced him to retire during the semi final win over Cavan to play a notable part in the impressive 1-13 to 1-7 victory over the defending champions.
That was his fourth All-Ireland SFC appearance, including one replay, in as many years. The other three were at full-forward, against Mayo in 1951 and two clashes with Cavan in '52.
Jim Reilly, who was 89 years of age when he sadly passed on, was also in the number 14 jersey for the National League triumph in 1951. After defeating Mayo by 0-6 to 0-3 in the 'home' final Meath overcame New York by 1-10 to 0-10 at the Polo Grounds.
Another notable inclusion on Jim's playing CV was lining out at right half-forward on Leinster's Railway Cup winning team in 1954. Connacht were defeated by 1-7 to 1-5 in the final and as well as Meath colleague Paddy Meegan, the Dublin trio of Ollie Freaney, Kevin Heffernan and Cathal O'Leary and Louth's Jim McDonnell were also in the winners' attack.
Jim Reilly enjoyed notable success on the club scene with St Peter's, Dunboyne. He was centre-field for the IFC win in 1952 and centre-forward when the Feis Cup was annexed in 1959 - St Vincent's being defeated in both finals. He continued playing into his 40s.
Brendan Reilly, son of Jim, followed in his father's footsteps when gaining two All-Ireland senior medals. He will be most remembered for shooting the spectacular winning point at the end of the final replay against Mayo in 1996.
In 1988 he played a starring role at right half-forward in the NFL final replay win over Dublin. He was among the substitutes when the All-Ireland two-in-a-row was completed later that year, having sustained a shoulder injury in the opening round clash with Louth.
Jim's other sons, Peter and Leo, also starred for their club and played on various Meath teams.

Dinny Keague, St Peter's Park
Dinny was corner back on the Dunboyne 1958 Feis Cup winning team, Dinny enjoyed the horse racing and knew how to keep you thinking while playing a game of 25's.

Aine (Nancy)
Moran, Bennettstown.
Long time Dublin supporter Nancy came to Dunboyne to marry into a strong Meath GAA family. She was wife of the late Jack who played hurling for Dunboyne and was club president for several years. Nancy's family continue to be heavily involved in the club at all levels.

Alice Moran, Jarretstown
Alice was the oldest person in Dunboyne parish at the time of her passing. She was the wife of the late Peter Moran who won an All Ireland junior hurling medal with Meath in 1927.

Angela Barry Baytown Park.
Angela's family have long supported St Peter's and our race night would not be a success without the help of the Barry family.

Nora Forde, Woodview
Nora was the wife of Paddy and mother of Luke who both played hurling for the club. Luke has in recent times lit up the road running scene with many winning performances.
Our thanks to Gillian Reilly and Brendan Boylan for all their help.

Eileen Kelly
Sons Michael, Pat and Paul played with Kildalkey and won underage medals with the club.

Tony Rooney
A former player with Kildalkey, Tony was almost 103 years old when he passed away.

Nancy Ledwith
Nancy's brothers, Frank and Val Ledwith, represented Kildalkey on the field of play. Val won a JHC medal in 1969 and captained the 1971 Intermediate winning team. Nancy's nephew, Andrew, currently plays with the club while her niece Suzanne Ledwith-Reilly started camogie in Kildalkey and is still involved.

Jimmy Reilly
A former player with Kildalkey, Jimmy also served as chairman in the nineties.

Mary Canty
Mary's brothers, Jimmy and Jack Canty hurled with Kildalkey. Jimmy won a JHC medal in 1969 and an Intermediate in 1971. Mary's nephew John Canty also played with the club.

Paddy Potterton
Paddy captured JHC in 1969 and IHC honours two years later in '71. His five sons - Seamus, Pauric, Colm, Micheal and Eoin - all played with the club and were on successful underage teams. Pauric, Micheal and Eoin won SHC medals in 2009, '10 and '11.

Cecil Geoghegan
Cecil played an instrumental role in the JHC and IHC victories of 1969 and '71 respectively. He played in three senior finals but missed out on a winners medal. Cecil Geoghegan was also a regular on the Meath senior hurling team for a spell. His nephews Padraig, Raymond and Gerard have won senior medals with the club.

Brian Reilly
Brian was a member of the Kildalkey team that claimed the SHC in 1951, having won a JHC medal previously. He was involved with the club all of his life. Brian served as secretary and treasurer and was active in the juvenile section of the club almost up to the time of his death. Grandson Anthony Smith plays with Kildalkey.

Joe Forde
Joe's son Alan lined out at football with Kildalkey and his nephew, Stephen Forde, plays hurling and won three senior medals in 2009, '10 and '11. Stephen is the club's current minor hurling manager.

Sean McAuley
A long-time supporter and member of Kildalkey, all of Sean's sons played underage with the club.

Rose Healy
Nee Brady, Rose's brothers Tommy, Jimmy and Michael played with Kildalkey. Jimmy and Michael won JHC and IHC medals in 1969 and '71. Her nephews, Michael, David and Thomas, also played with Kildalkey and were on successful underage teams. Michael won JHC medals while David gained SHC medals.

Ollie Bird
A long-time supporter of Kildalkey, Ollie's grand-nephew Tiernan Bird currently plays minor with Kildalkey.
(Our thanks to Brendan Harmon and the Kildalkey club)

Kitty Meade
Grandmother of Christopher Meade who plays minor and senior with Rathkenny and a sister of the late Paddy Meegan, the legendary Meath and Syddan footballer. Kitty's son, Fr Michael Meade, is the parish priest in Donore.

Patsy Halligan
Patsy's son Derek played with Rathkenny and his grandson, Caolach, currently lines out with the club. Through the course of his life he was actively involved in the parish and community of Rathkenny. Patsy gave his time freely to a number of local groups like Castletown Accordian Band and Rathkenny Athletic Club and in more recent years, Rathkenny Hall Committee and Rathkenny Revels. He was also a director of Slane Credit Union.

Teresa Meade
A former treasurer and committee member of Rathkenny, Teresa was a first cousin of current players John and David Donegan and was a lifelong member of the Rathkenny Revels, with roles on stage, as secretary and box office bookings.

Margaret Reilly
Formerly of the Post Office in Rathkenny, Margaret was a sister of Kay Gogarty who was a former secretary of the Royal Meath Association, Dublin.

Mary Crahan
Mary's husband Brian is a former player with Rathkenny.

Lily Lawlor
Nee Timmons, Lily was an aunt of former County Board chairman Barney Allen. She was also the aunt of the Timmons and Wall families who have had a long association with the club.
(Thanks to Barney Allen and the Rathkenny club)

Gerry Stafford
Originally from Kilbeg, Gerry played on the Carlanstown team that won the Division 3 championship in 1978 and later lined out on the first St Michael's team that took the field in 1980. His father Larry is a current club President and trustee while his brother Martin is club treasurer. Another brother, Justin, is a past chairman of St Michael's while all Gerry's brothers, Martin, Justin, David and Patrick, played with the club.
(Our thanks to Gerry Kealy and the St Michael's club)

Denis Keague
Dinny was 80 years old and is survived by all his nine children and six siblings. He lived most of his adult life in St Peter's Park, Dunboyne and was a well recognised and liked character in the village. His first love was his family and his wife Vera who predeceased him eight years ago. His second love was horse racing. Along with Vera, he was a regular at race meetings, both in Ireland and the UK. His brothers, Oliver and Dermot, both current members of St Paul's GFC, were founders and players of the now defunct Flathouse club. St Paul's rose from the ashes of the Flathouse club. Dinny was an uncle of current team manager, and former Meath selector, Tom Keague and current St Paul's secretary, Willie Keague.
(St Pauls GAA)

Declan Rooney (Kingscourt)
There was much sadness over a wide area following the sudden passing of Declan from Kingscourt in September. The 32 year old was a keen sportsman and played underage football with Kingscourt Stars GFC before transferring to Meath Hill GFC where he played under 21 and junior football.

Rose Maguire (Longwood)
Nee Geraghty, Rose was a sister of Tom Joe Geraghty who is a vice-president of Longwood GAA club. Both her brothers, Patrick and Tom Joe, played hurling and football with the local club while 'Posie', as she was known, was an avid bingo player.

Aidan Foran (Longwood)
There was widespread sadness in June following the passing of Aidan Foran, one of the great Meath GAA players of the late 1940s and 1950s era. An outstanding footballer and hurler, Aidan enjoyed success at club level with Longwood, Trim and Ballivor. In 1945, aged 15, he won a MHC medal with Trim and added a second minor medal two years later in 1947.
His trophy collection also included two Feis Cup medals, won with Ballivor in 1950 and Longwood in 1952. Aidan's performances in the Feis Cup with Ballivor brought him to the attention of the Meath senior football selectors and he was called up to the county panel. In 1951, he was a part of the Meath team that defeated Louth by 18 points in the Leinster senior football championship final before losing narrowly to Mayo in the All-Ireland final.
On the intercounty hurling front, he won Leinster and All-Ireland junior hurling medals in 1948 before winning a Division 2 National Hurling League medal the following year. Aidan was later a member of the Trim team that captured SHC and O'Growney Cup honours in 1956.
An accomplished boxer, Aidan won a Meath light welterweight boxing title in 1946. He was also a prominent member of the Longwood Dramatic Society.
The talented dual star spent his working life as a postman, covering the Moyvalley, Broadford, Cadamstown and Clogherinkoe areas. Aidan worked out of Moyvalley Post Office and served the area for 47 years before his retirement.
His interest and love for the GAA never waned throughout his life and he kept a close eye on the fortunes of local and county teams right up until his passing. He also served as secretary of Longwood GAA Club for 22 years.
In GAA Centenary Year of 1984, he was honoured with his team mates for his 1948 hurling success and in 2003 was presented with a Seán Gael trophy. There were also Hall of Fame awards in 1998 and 2008 to mark the anniversaries of the 1948 win.
At the removal to Longwood Church a guard of honour, drawn from present and past members of Longwood GAA Club and former colleagues from the Post Office, escorted his remains from the village green, where Aidan spent his youth perfecting his shooting skills, by his home place to the Church of the Assumption, Longwood. Following burial in the adjoining cemetery, a graveside oration was delivered by former club chairman, Michael Leonard.

Mary Doyle (Kilcloon)
Nee O Brien, Mary was the daughter of Cyril O'Brien who was a co founder of Kelly, Fitzgerald and O Brien Park in Kilcloon which is one of the home pitches of Blackhall Gaels GAA Club. Her brothers, Noel, Johnny, Dessie and Gerard, all represented the Kilcloon club with distinction and the latter, popularly known an 'Jetser', played for Meath. Married to Tipperary native Richie Doyle, their sons played football and hurling with Blackhall Gaels.

Barry Fitzgerald
A son of the legendary Meath GAA administrator, the late Jack Fitzgerald, Barry sadly passed away in November. A selector with the breakthrough All-Ireland winning team of 1949, Jack holds the distinction of being the only Meath man to have occupied the role of Leinster Council chairman (1951 to '53). Barry inherited his father's passion for the GAA and was a member of the Kilcloon team that captured JFC honours in 1973 and also served on the club committee during the early days of the Blackhall Gaels club. His sons, John and Bernard, wore the club colours.

Mary Joe Carty
Mary Joe Carty (née O'Toole) was 21 years old when she moved to Meath with her parents and siblings, under the Land Commission migration scheme, in 1951. She was born in 1930 and grew up in Conagher, a small townland in County Galway on the border with Mayo.
Mary Joe always claimed both heritages: "The house was in Galway but we went to mass, to school, to the shops and to the pub in Mayo". Her attachment to those counties was very obvious when either one of them was playing against Meath in GAA matches; we never needed to ask which side she was on. When, on the rare occasion, the match was between Mayo and Galway she found herself in a win-win situation.
In 1951, upon arrival in Waynestown in the parish of Kilcloon, Co. Meath, Mary Joe was spotted by her next door neighbour, Harry Carty, whose family had also just recently migrated from Shraigh, near Belmullet on Mayo's Atlantic coast.
Within a few years they were married and started what was to become a very large family of ten children, of which I am one.
We grew up on a small farm in the sixties and seventies where the Beatles were rarely heard and long hair deeply frowned upon, "You can't tell the men from the women nowadays". Most of our neighbours were farmers too and most hailed from the Wesht. We were a generation that lived with parents and grandparents who spoke with strong Mayo and Galway accents though living only a short few miles from Dublin city. Place names like Ballindine, Claremorris, Ballyhaunis, Belmullet, Ballina, Castlebar, Erris were far more familiar to our childish ears than Navan, Trim, Kells, Athboy.
Mary Joe left the Wesht but the Wesht never fully left her. From her stuffing, soup and brown bread recipes, to her fascinating way of celebrating Halloween, to having Santy arrive on Christmas Eve, all her traditions (and now ours) were brought directly from the Wesht.
She had peculiar vocabulary too: some were Gaelicisms, some from her native Wesht and some just plain self-invented (the spellings are mine): a buddah (pompous); putog (spoiled child); bowdies (head lice); Amàdan (idiot); Lord Oran More (a reference to some high born person from her part of the world and used to reprimand signs of pretentiousness or fussiness).
There were some cryptic, incomprehensible ones too - though we always understood them perfectly-: By troth; It's woe betide ye; Don't start your Andra Martins; The Dickens Hize ye; He's as wise as Paddy the thimbles, She'll make kittle binders of it…
Mary Joe was of the generation that unquestioningly went to mass every Sunday and observed all the Catholic rituals; she saw to it that her large brood did likewise for as long as she was able to exercise that kind of authority. Yet towards the end of her life she yielded gracefully to the new norms of the younger generations.
Mary Joe was not a boat-rocker but she was nevertheless a strong woman who defended her views and principles. She suffered the very sad loss of her fourth son Jarlath in 1994 and then of her beloved Harry in 2000, yet she continued to protect her family by never allowing her own sadness to cause distress to us.
She was proud of her children's and grandchildren's achievements and liked to hear of football and hurling victories by the Blackhall Gaels where they figure prominently. Her idyllic marriage, her gentle-assertive ways, her earthy intelligence and her unconditional love for her children and grandchildren have left us with the impossibility of repaying that debt and we all possess a tremendous gratitude.
When she died on January 6th 2013 Mary Joe departed leaving us without a single reproach, and I know we are much better people for having had her as a mother. We have been given an invaluable legacy.
Padraig A. Carty, on behalf of the Carty clan.

Billy Maguire
An avid GAA fan who never missed a Meath game. Talented man with his hands which he passed down to his children and grand children. Great follower of the hurlers in Rathmolyon where his grandson David Morgan now plays in the senior team. Billy's son Robert Maguire is also on the committee of the club for a number of years. Will be missed around the Parish.

Packie Maguire
A loyal follower of the Meath footballers, travelling near and far to cheer on the Boys in Green. Well able to tell a yarn or two and sing a song around the fire at home. Sadly missed by the local community and further afield. His son in law is Dominic Reilly who is the Chairman of the Hurling Development group in the County. Brother of the aforementioned Billy.

Tess Hendron
Nee Farrell, Tess was a woman of great faith and would be seen walking down the path to the church in Rathmolyon when she would be staying in her son's house in the village. Her son Pat and her grandson John both won senior titles with the boys in green over the years and her great grandson Rhys is now pulling on the jersey. She is survived by her husband John Hendron.
 
Michael Tuite
Michael was a great follower of of the GAA in the parish, buying the lotto tickets and having the chat after games in the local. However his first love was the horses. if there was a meet on he would give you"a dead cert". Michael will be sadly missed by all in Church View and around the village.

Dessie Christie
Dessie Christie was a stalwart of the Rathmolyon football team. Playing full back there were not too many full forwards who got the better of him. Following the Meath team was a passion with Dessie, travelling near and far to support the boys in green. Paddy Christie who played full back for Dublin was a nephew of Dessie's.

 Mary Fagan
Mary was a well loved figure around the village, and bingo and travelling with the senior citizens was what she enjoyed the most. Living in Church View all she saw was the kids playing hurling, the Coles, the Farrells, the Gantleys, the Geraghtys and the Reillys would be pulling on the sliothar outside her front door. Mary loved the buzz when a big game came to the village.
Thanks to Rathmolyon hurling club for all their help.

Tom Halpin senior (Kilbeg)
Tom's son, also Tom, represented Meath at all levels and is presently coach of the St Michael's intermediate and Under 21 teams. Tom junior is married to Meath 1949 and '54 All-Ireland winner Mattie McDonnell's daughter Ann. Their son, Matthew, was selected on the Meath under 16 Development Squad this year.

Stephen Farrelly
Stephen represented Athboy on the hurling field in the seventies.

Betty McGovern
A former ladies committee member, Betty was a dedicated worker with the club. Her husband Joe lined out on the football fields with the old Martinstown club while sons Joe, Martin, Kevin and Michael hurled with Athboy. Betty was a sister of Mattie Mullen who was the guest of honour at this year's SHC final between Kilmessan and Longwood.

Caroline Hanlon
Originally from Dublin, Caroline's two sons, Craig and Ross, play underage football and hurling with Clann na nGael.

Gerry Renehan
A former footballer and hurler with Athboy in the fifties and sixties, Gerry's medal collection at domestic level included IFC and JHC medals. He also represented the county in both codes and won a Leinster junior medal in 1958. Unfortunately for Gerry and Meath, Galway beat the Royals in the All Ireland Home final. Gerry Renehan was centre field on that junior team.
Two years previous he was full back on the Meath side which went under narrowly, 1-10 to 1-9, to Dublin in the Leinster minor decider. Dublin proceeded to comfortably win the competition but many of the stars who shone for Meath the following summer, when the young Royals captured their first minor crown, gained their baptism of fire in that '56 campaign. His sons Dessie and Damien likewise played with the club while his grandchildren are following in the family tradition at the moment. Gerry was also an accomplished golfer and had a great affinity with Headfort Golf Club.

Ollie & Phyllis Bird
Owners of Centra, Athboy, Ollie and Phyllis, who sadly both passed away this year, generously sponsored the local club and were great supporters of the county teams. Their son James still runs the family business and continues to provide generous sponsorship to Clann na nGael. Ollie and Phyllis' grandson Jack plays underage with the club.
(Our thanks to Brian Connor and Clann na nGael)

Leanne McCloskey
The St Colmcille's club was shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Leanne McCloskey in April. Leanne's brother, Robbie, lines out at midfield for the Pilltown club and her cousins, Gary and Frankie, also play.
(Thanks to St Colmcille's)

Maura Owens
The village of Kilmainhamwood and the entire GAA community of north Meath were saddened to learn of the death of Maura Owens in late 2012.
Wife of club official Francie and mother of Thomas, Gerry, Francis and Martina, Maura had been a shining light in the life of the club for the past 35 years. Gerry and Francis were part of the Kilmainhamwood team of the nineties who won under 21, intermediate and senior championships.
Maura could also claim to have been Meath's greatest supporter with family trips to far away counties and overnight stays for even insignificant league games an absolute must in their footballing calendar.
A photo of the great Brian Stafford celebrating victory in Croke Park in 1987 accompanied by a then 10 year old Francis took pride of place in the Owens household.
Nothing was ever too much trouble for her family especially where the GAA was concerned. Her house was always open and most welcoming to both club and county board officials.
Francie and Maura looked after tickets for Croke Park, match fixtures, preparation of jerseys and a million other things which arose in the life of a club official. She was always a joy to meet socially, a beautiful smile and with infectious good humour she brought joy to all around her.
Kilmainhamwood football club provided a guard of honour at her funeral.

Lily Owens
Nee Farrelly, Lily was a native of Mullagh and sadly passed away at the age of 94 years last February. Lily's son Francie has given long and distinguished service to the local Kilmainhamwood GAA club and her grandsons have also represented the Wood with distinction on the field of play.

Paddy McGee
A native of Limerick, Paddy took great pride in seeing his son Raymond play for Meath at senior and underage levels. He was active in Kilmainhamwood GAA and coached the camogie teams at various underage levels. Ray lined out for Kilmainhamwood in their JFC D final win over Seneschalstown the day after his father's funeral and captain Tommy Owens dedicated the victory to Paddy's memory in his speech. Limerick hurling was one of Paddy's greatest passions while he took a keen interest in his local community and church where he sang for many years in the choir.

Ollie Stafford
Ollie - who died peacefully last Christmas Eve - was the father of Meath great Brian Stafford who, of course, played starring roles in the All-Ireland wins of 1987 and '88 and who later captained Kilmainhamwood to SFC glory in 1996.

Fr Jimmy Duffy
The death occurred in January of Fr Jimmy Duffy, the retired parish priest of Oughteragh and Ballinamore, Co Leitrim who was a native of Tulleweel, Kilmainhamwood. One of his classmates at St Patrick's College, Cavan was the legendary PJ Duke from Stradone, the great Breffni footballer.
He played a major part in the GAA in North Leitrim while serving in Drumkeerin and was chosen as Cathaoirleach of the North Leitrim Co Board in 1955 at a time when all was not well with football there.
Then according to Fr Duffy, there was "hardly a match without trouble". Objections, counter objections, abandoned games, suspensions. His committee rescued the situation and brought discipline to the game. Fr Duffy was at that time a great fund-raiser and through card games and mini fundraisers he funded different projects in Drumkeerin.
He also carried out great work in paying for the new church in Ballyjamesduff when he was transferred there. Fr Jimmy was involved in community organisations like Muintir na Tíre in Drumkeerin, the Tidy Towns in Ballyjamesduff when they won the All Ireland in 1966 and 1967 and the GAA in Ballinaglera.

Eugene MacMahon
A popular Meath farmer, Eugene, or Gene as he was fondly known, had a keen interest in the GAA and was a talented footballer with Kilmainham-wood in his day.

Noel Curran
(Moynalty/Dunshaughlin/Dublin)
If you ask anyone in Dunshaughlin and the surrounding area who has played, or religiously supported the club down through the years, about who was the finest player ever to don the black and amber, one name always seems to crop up and that is the recently deceased Noel Curran.
A native of Moynalty, and one of 17 children, Noel came to Dunshaughlin as a child to be reared by an aunt. He attended school in Dunshaughlin, and from a young age Gaelic football became his love and he lined out with the local parish under 14 team St. Martin's in 1958.
At sixteen, Noel left school and Dunshaughlin to learn his trade as a barman in Mohan's in Phibsboro. But that did not stop him playing for his beloved Dunshaughlin and he often came out to Meath to play, with Patsy and Johnny McLoughlin and Val Dowd among others on chauffeur duties, collecting and bringing Noel back into Dublin.
Noel first wore the club's black and amber at adult level in 1961 and went on to win a junior medal in '67. Operating in his favourite full-forward position he notched six points as Dunshaughlin beat Nobber in the Meath intermediate final of 1977.
Noel's, pre-match routine of warming up in Murrays before a match and warming down back again in Murray's after the game are now legendary in these parts and he was never shy of breaking into a rendition of Danny Boy while celebrating a hard-earned black and amber victory.
With Noel's exploits on the football field becoming a focal point for many, it came as no surprise when he answered 'The Royal Call' to play for Meath, and he had the great honour and distinction of being the first man from the Dunshaughlin club to capture that elusive All-Ireland medal in 1967. Noel lined out at full forward as Meath went on to beat Cork.
He occupied the same position the previous year when Galway outscored a fancied Meath team to complete a three-in-a-row. Noel missed out on Meath's 1970 final defeat to Kerry, but returned to the county colours for a spell during the early '70s. Noel also got to savour life 'Down Under' with clubmate Jimmy Walsh, both being key figures on the Meath panel which travelled on the historic tour of Australia in 1968.
In the twilight of his footballing career, Noel joined the Thomas Davis club in Dublin, he was living nearby and continued to play the game he loved, lining out for the Thomas Davis' intermediate team well into his forties. And still causing many defenders heartache and misery.
Noel had five children, his sons Michael and Paul standing out as fine footballers, with Paul, a devastating, attacking wing back, who many consider up there with Paidi and Tomas O Se, stars who also wore the No. 5 jersey with such great distinction. After years of heartbreak, Paul finally tasted All-Ireland success with the Dubs in 1995 with a 14-man Dublin team beating Tyrone in the final.
Noel eventually gave up the bar business, going on to work in security in Bank of Ireland on Baggott Street and recent years were spent working driving a taxi in Dublin. Gaelic football was not the only sport he was good at. Noel Curran was a competent golfer and in his younger years enjoyed a game of tennis and handball.
Noel was Guest of Honour at the 2011 Meath county final and only last March received his much deserved Dunshaughlin Hall of Fame award from club chairman Jim Smith.
Noel Curran was a true gentleman, on and off the field of play, and people only had good things to say about him. He had a great pair of hands and had an outstanding knack of being able to score with his back to goals. Noel was a truly fantastic, old style full forward who would not look out of place today playing in Croke Park.
----Dunshaughlin GAA Tweet

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