Hanley, John
February 23, 2007It was with a deep sense of much regret and deep loss that the people in the Moycullen and surrounding district learned of the passing of a widely known and popular parishioner, Mr John Hanley, of Clooniffe. John was a very friendly and outgoing personality, who greatly enjoyed meeting with people and having good conversation.
He was a member of the local farming community and he much enjoyed the traditional and rural way of life.
John was always a lively and athletic man and was past eighty three years of age. He is survived by his two sisters, Bridgie and Catherine, both in the United States; nephews, in-laws, other relatives and a wide circle of friends to whom regret has been expressed on their sad bereavement.
In his younger days, John Hanley was widely known as an athletic and stylish hurler. He lined out with Moycullen and Galway hurling selections and won many titles with Moycullen teams. He was a member of the Moycullen team which captured the 1944 West and County junior hurling titles with the players coming from townlands, such as Clooniffe, Poll na gCloch, Leagaun and Killagoola. This was a memorable era in local Intermediate title was captured in 1945 with the club's first minor title coming in the same year.
The team, with John Hanley as a star performer, competed in the senior division from 1945 to 1953 and was considered most unlucky not to have taken a Senior Championship. Sadly, emigration and some misfortune, took their toll. Only one member of the fine 1944 team now survives.
The coffin was draped in the number 14 Green-and-White of his beloved Moycullen, and the Maroon and White of Galway. He enjoyed success with them during thirty years of loyal and devoted service in hurling circles. John was recognised as a stylish player, with a great sense for what was happening around him. He maintained his great interest to the end and he attended numerous games in hurling and football. While his first love was hurling, he also played in goal on strong Moycullen football selections in the fifties. Many warm tributes were extended to him on his great loyalty, friendship and support at various times.
Big numbers from surrounding districts congregated for his removal of his remains and the burial ceremonies. Reposing took place at Aiseiri Funeral Rooms and his remains were removed to the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Moycullen. The burial ceremonies took place at the New Cemetery in Moycullen following the celebration of Requiem Mass. Fr Colm Clinton and Fr Michael McLoughlin officiated.
At the graveside, Mr Mairtin MacFhlanncadha sang one of John's favourite songs, "Pat McMurphy's Meadow" while his neighbour, Mr Marcus Thornton recited a decade of the Rosary.
The sun shone brightly as one of Moycullen's most esteemed hurlers was laid to eternal rest and with is many memories of great hurling exploits.
The Moycullen district has lost another loyal and honourable member. Bennacht De lena anam dilis, uasal.
Courtesy of the Connacht Tribune
23 February 2007 Tweet
