Legion GAA club saddened at passing of its loyal son The late James O'Donoghue It was with deep sadness and regret that all at the Legion GAA club learned of the sad passing of their president and past chairman James O'Donoghue. Highly popular and well known by both young and old alike he served his club and community with great ability and dedication for many years. It was a common sight to see Jameso holding court entertaining audiences many years his junior with his gregarious nature and sense of humour. Born in 1923 where the Pretty Polly factory was built later, his parents, along with five brothers and two sisters, moved to Lissivigeen where the family took up residence. His early playing days were with Lissivigeen and after they broke up in the mid forties he threw his lot in with Headford with whom he won an E.K title. The Headford club also folded and it was about this time in 1947 that Jameso began his nursing career in St. Finan's where he remained until his retirement in 1986. During his time there he worked in all disciplines as well as being actively involved in the trade union. Indeed he was heavily involved in politics all his life, in the Lavour party with work colleague Mike Moynihan and latterly with councillor Michael Gleeson. His time there saw many changes and he himself was instrumental in many things that improved the lot of both patients and staff. This generosity of time and spirit was also evident with his long involvement with the Kidney Association and today their efforts can be seen at work at the Dialysis Unit in the Kerry General Hospital. In April 1952 he married Lily (nee Kerrisk) with whom he was to spend over 55 years - their 50th anniversary was a special occasion and a full family portrait taken on the night can be seen hanging on the wall in Knockeeduve. It was at this point Jameso began his long involvement with the Legion and he played with many of the club's finest. For many years Jameso was chairman of the New Cemetery Graveyard Committee stepping down only the year before last. How fitting and ironic that he should now be laid to rest among the graves that he cared for like his own - non more so than his recently deceased daughter Mary. Jameso served his club and community for many years, he knew what he wanted and how to get it done. His many friends will miss him and all in the Legion GAA club thank him and his family for all they've done down the years. To Lily, Anne, Peggy, Eilish, Donal, Diarmuid, Kathleen, Seamus and family we extend our deepest sympathy and condolences. -Courtesy of The Kerryman 19th November 2008 Tweet

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