Clifford, John
December 22, 2010The late John Clifford
It is with a great degree of sadness and a sense of loss we announce the death of our esteemed member and fellow brother John Clifford of New York and late of Killorglin.
John was born and raised in Killorglin and emigrated to America in 1960. He played for Laune Rangers from 1955 to 1960 and was on the Mid Kerry team that played Kerrins O'Rahilly's in 1955.
Upon his arrival in New York he quickly took up his native Kerry football and played for many years in New Yorks Gaelic Park. It has been reported that while playing in the full back position, he was the bane of every football player in New York.
He was noted for his strong support of the New York GAA.
He married Margaret (nee Moran) of Westmeath and they have a daughter Ann Marie and four sons; John, Brian, Michael and Kevin.
John completed a successful career with Queens Farm Dairy and the New York Board of Education and was co-owner of the enterprising Clifford & McMahon's in East Tremont Avenue in the Bronx.
He was a prolific fundraiser for the Kerrymen's Patriotic and Benevolent Association's many charitable causes, those of the New York GAA and many worthy causes for those unable to fend for themselves due to injuries, ill health or pure misfortune.
His efforts on behalf of all he has helped have contributed to the great honour and esteem of all Kerry people both here in New York and in his native Kerry.
He was a big man physically but even bigger in heart, soul and generosity. He was the consummate gentle giant who loved to share a joke, a laugh and anything that would bring joy to others.
Ar Dheis De a anam uasal. Slan go foill, a Sheain agus Nollaig Naofa dhuit imeasc na Naoimh ar Neamh.
Courtesy of The Kerryman 22/12/10 Tweet
