The death of Jim Slater, 11 St. Fiacc's Terrace Graiguecullen severs a link with the glory days of Laois football during the 1930's and 1940's. Jim Slater was regarded as an outstanding footballer of that wonderful era both for Laois and Graiguecullen. And while Jim's club, county and provincial achievements on the football field were immense, he spoke little of them such was his quiet spoken and unassuming manner. Jim, who lined out at left half back, played a major part m the successes of both Graiguecullen and Laois. He played senior football for his beloved club over a 20 year period from 1932 to 1952 winning a total of nine Laois SFC medals in that glorious period for the wearers of the red and green from the Carlow border area. Laois club football in that era was, of course, dominated by Graiguecullen and Stradbally who more or less farmed the SFC between them. He was a member of the great Laois team of the time that went so close to winning an All Ireland title and he had the distinction of winning three successive Leinster SFC medals in 1937,1938 and 1939. Jim Slater was also honoured by the Leinster selectors in 1938 and 1939 and was a winner of a Railway Cup medal with his province. He also toured with Laois to the United States in 1938 on what was a hugely significant and successful trip. A life-long and devoted member of Graiguecullen GFC, Jim was club vice-president at the time of his death. The attendance at his funeral included club and county playing colleagues, club and county board officers as well as a huge circle of friends and neighbours. Born in 1913 Jim was predeceased by his wife, Elizabeth (nee Doyle). Jim is sadly missed by his sister Mrs. Cissie Byrne (O'Hanrahan Avenue, Carlow), by his nephews, nieces, other relatives, neighbours and former football colleagues. He was laid to rest in Killeshin cemetery. Thanks are extended to Michael Lawlor ('The Lord Mayor'), 13 Fr. Byrne Park, Graiguecullen for providing the information on this great Gael. Courtesy of The Carlow Nationalist August 2002 Tweet

Most Read Stories