The late Olly Murray Flags flew at half-mast at the grounds of Grange GFC in memory of a past player and much-loved former school principal who became the latest victim on Carlow's roads. Oliver (Olly) Murray, 46 The Orchards, Tullow Road, Carlow was fatally injured near Wall's Forge on the Carlow/Wexford Road on Saturday morning at 9.50am. Mr Murray (68) was struck by a van close to Wall's Forge while taking a walk along a route he had regularly travelled. Just three years into his well-earned retirement, Mr Murray was predeceased by his wife Nancy in October 2003 following an illness. A native of Kilkee, Co. Clare. Olly was principal at Grange NS for 37 years until his retirement in December, 2001. Fondly regarded by generations of families in Grange, he was described by former pupils this week as a kind and gentle man who took a keen interest in the future of the many children he taught through the years. This considerate nature was evident to all who came in contact with Olly who was described by those who knew him this week as "one of life's true gentlemen". The community of Carlow and Grange very much became home to Olly who arrived to the county in the mid-60s having begun his teaching career in County Leitrim. Initially the Murray family lived on Sycamore Road, Rathnapish, Carlow but in the late 80s became one of the first families to move into the then new development, The Orchards, on the Tullow Road. A lifelong regard for the GAA saw Olly play with the county team in Leitrim and this love of the game was further encouraged when he played midfield with Grange GFC helping the team to win an intermediate championship in the late '60s. During his years as principal, Olly also took on the role of presiding officer at the polling station in Grange NS for the various elections and referendums. On the occasion of his retirement, glowing tributes were paid to Olly in respect of his years of service to the school and among the presentations made to him was a commemorative tree, which was planted in the school grounds to mark the occasion. In recent years Olly developed a keen interest in bridge and was a member of a number of bridge clubs in the area. A very energetic and active man, he loved the outdoors - indeed, for many living in Carlow town he was a very familiar sight out walking taking in the fresh air with a friendly hello for all those he met. Removal took place yesterday (Tuesday) to the Holy Family Church, Askea and burial will take place this morning (Wednesday) at St Mary's Cemetery, Carlow following Requiem Mass at 11am in Askea. As a measure of the esteem in which Olly was held in the local community, guards of honour will be observed by Grange NS, Grange GFC and the INTO. Pupils at Grange NS will also form the choir at today's Requiem Mass. Olly is survived by his daughters Maria, Kathleen and Olivia, brother John, sisters Ann, Evelyn, Mary and Margaret, relatives and a wide circle of friends. Courtesy of The Nationalist 24 March 2006 Tweet

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