Louth Obituaries 2008
Damien Reid (Collon) In late May 2008, Louth and Mattock Rangers GAA were dealt a sad blow with the passing of their great stalwart Damien Reid. Damien served club and county tremendously as both a player and coach and will be remembered by all those who knew him as a true gentleman whose contribution to Louth GAA is immeasurable. As a player, he was outstanding for the Wee County in the ’seventies and early ’eighties. His scoring prowess was such that he finished top scorer in the national football league in successive campaigns and the Collon man was also an All Star nominee - an incredible achievement considering that Louth football was hardly setting the world on fire at the time. He represented the Reds at U21 and senior levels and went on to manage Louth at minor and U21 grades. Damien had three years with the U21s and was involved when the Wee County reached their last provincial final - the 1996 Leinster U21 decider against neighbours Meath. With Mattock, Damien was a colossus on and off the field. He captained the Collon men to an intermediate championship in 1982 and played in the senior deciders of 1973 and ’76. He went on to manage the club at various levels and was selector for the Joe Ward Cup success of 2005. Damien’s brother Sean played alongside him for club and county. His sons David and Adrian have both represented Louth at minor, U21 and senior levels and both have tasted senior championship glory with Mattock under his guidance. A generous man with his time, Damien did not limit his involvement in gaelic games to his own club but also assisted other clubs over the years, including John Mitchells, Sean McDermotts and Baile Talun. He leaves behind an incredible legacy, many fond memories and a void that will never be filled.
Hubert Reynolds (Dundalk/Drogheda) A native of Leitrim, Hubert Reynolds was one of Louth’s best footballers in golden era of the 1940s and 1950s. He was at midfield for his adoptive Wee County for the 1948/49 national league final against Mayo and he also represented the Reds against the same opposition in the 1950 All-Ireland SFC final at Croke Park. Hubert collected a Railway Cup medal with Leinster in 1952 and garnered another Leinster championship souvenir the following year, only for Louth to lose to Kerry at the All-Ireland semi-final stage. While based in Louth as a Garda, Hubert played for the Valley Rangers, Cooley Kickhams and Gaels clubs, winning a senior championship with the Gaels in ’52. He played for Oliver Plunketts after being transferred to Drogheda. Hubert retired from football before the 1957 success but was Guest of Honour at the 50th anniversary celebrations three months before his death in December 2007. Hubert accompanied Pope John Paul II during his visit to Ireland in 1979 and was known thereafter as ‘The Pope’s Bodyguard’.
Sean Craven (Kilcurry) Even though his main sporting passion was for athletics, the late Sean Craven from Balriggan, Kilcurry, who passed away on November 24 2007, was also a keen footballer in his youth. Like his seven brothers, he lined out for Roche Emmets, winning a Louth Division Two championship medal in 1953. He also served the club as a senior selector thereafter.
Alfred Smart (Dundalk) Alfred ‘Alfie’ Smart lived up to his surname when it came to sport as he was one of the town’s most versatile sportsmen, accomplished in many disciplines. Boxing, athletics and roller skating hockey were included amongst the sports Alfie excelled in and he was also a noted footballer with the Clans. His Oakland Park home was full of trophies, each of which had a story to tell.
Malachy McArdle (Knockbridge) The late Malachy ‘Mal’ McArdle of Ballinaclare, Knockbridge was a stalwart of the local St Brides GAA club. He gave his life to the Brides as a player, selector and administrator and was regarded as the backbone of the club for close to 50 years. Mal won a Ranafast Cup with his beloved Brides in 1964 and was corner forward on the junior double winning team of ’67. The club went senior the following year and made an immediate impact as Mal and co. brought the Cardinal O’Donnell Cup home to Knockbridge. He also served the club as juvenile coach, chairman and secretary and oversaw the development of the club grounds. Members of the Brides turned out in large numbers to bid farewell to one of their own following his death on December 4 2007.
Gerry Flanagan (Dundalk) Gerry Flanagan from Grange Drive, Muirhevnamor passed away on his 55th birthday at Louth County Hospital on December 4 2007. An excellent gaelic footballer and soccer player in his youth, Gerry played for both the Gaels and St Dominic’s at minor level. He also represented a number of teams in the summer leagues.
Anthony Clarke (Castlebellingham) Remembered as one of County Louth’s true gentlemen, Anthony ‘Tony’ Clarke from Dundalk Road was one of Castlebellingham’s most-loved residents. Gaelic football was his greatest interest and Tony served O’Connells as secretary for eight years and as treasurer for seven. He was honorary president of the club for 15 years up until his death on February 1 2008. He never missed a match at The Grove and regularly travelled up to the capital to see various Louth teams in action at Croke Park.
Danny O’Neill (Haggardstown) Originally from Belfast, the last Danny O’Neill made Haggardstown his home after settling in the area 30 years ago. From Heynestown, Dundalk, the well-known Republican became actively involved in the Haggardstown area and the Geraldines club, helping out with the juvenile section.
James O’Hanlon (Jenkinstown) The late James ‘Jem’ O’Hanlon of Rampark, Jenkinstown, Dundalk was a keen GAA supporter, who followed his local St Patricks club and Louth throughout his life. He passed away on February 13 2008.
John Hanlon (Greenore) The local community was greatly saddened by the passing of one of its greatest ambassadors when John Hanlon died on February 12 2008. John will be remembered as an exceptional businessman and an incredible human being. He first donned the green and gold of Cooley Kickhams in the early 1960s, winning a junior championship in 1964. John was wing back as the senior championship was scooped in 1971 – their first in 32 years - and went on to become a trustee of the club. He was honorary president at the time of his death and Cooley Kickhams GFC were amongst the host of organisations providing a Guard of Honour at John Hanlon’s removal.
Mary McArdle (Dundalk) From St Kevin’s Terrace on the town’s Newry Road, Mary McArdle passed away on suddenly on February 28. She was in her 85th year. Mary was a keen sports woman in her youth and played camogie for the local Eire Og club. She was so talented at the game that she also represented Louth on many occasions.
Peadar Brannigan (Dundalk) Peadar Brannigan of Emer Terrace, Castletown Road, Dundalk passed away at the Louth Hospital on March 8 2008. Peadar was a well known plumbing and heating contractor, who had a lifelong association with the Clan na Gael GAA club. He was involved with the Clans from boyhood and represented the club at minor, junior and senior levels. He was a prominent player in the ‘50s and ‘60s. He was also a distinguished referee and served the club as North Minor Board delegate. As a minor selector, Peadar was instrumental in the breakthrough MFC victory in 1976 as well as the first U16 championship win a year later. First elected to the management committee in 1959, he was a former senior selector and held numerous officer positions within the club. Appointed honorary president in 1999, Peadar Brannigan acted as club bar manager for many years and was twice voted Clubman of the Year – in 1980 and 1983. Clan na Gael members provided a Guard of Honour at the removal and a gathering took place in the clubrooms in Peadar’s honour.
Thomas Rogers (Ravensdale) The late Thomas Rogers of Proleek Acres, Ravensdale, Dundalk passed away following a long illness at Louth County Hospital on February 8 2008, aged just 47. As a young man, he played soccer for Greenfield FC and gaelic football for St Patrick’s GFC.
Cornelius O’Neill (Dundalk) Cornelius ‘Con’ O’Neill of Castle Road and formerly of Castletown was a Clans man through and through. He supported Clan na Gael all his life and even sent a congratulatory telegram back from Australia in the aftermath of the 1954 JFC win. His coffin was draped in the green and gold and flanked by old friends and clubmen.
Joseph Cassidy (Dromiskin) Much sadness was evoked by the unexpected death at the age of 54 of Joseph ‘Joe’ Cassidy from Dromiskin and formerly from Dundalk and Dunleer. A larger than life character, Joe lined out for O’Connells when he was a young man. He later served on their committee, including a spell as treasurer.
Joseph Callan (Dromiskin) From Whiterath in Dromiskin, Joseph Callan was a native of Annagassan who lived in Dromiskin with his wife Peggy for 46 years. He was a gifted footballer and hurler in his youth, representing Dromiskin Unknowns, Colmcilles in Togher and Knockbridge and winning medals with all three.
Donal Keelan (Dundalk) The late Donal Keelan was originally from Newry Road and was a member of one of the town’s best-known families. Before emigrating to England, he played on a number of Dowdallshill teams in his youth.
Sean Kieran (Dundalk) Though he was better known for his many exploits as a soccer player and mentor, Sean Kieran from 13 Laurel Grove, Greenacres also played gaelic football to a high level in his local area. Growing up on the Castletown Road, he showed exceptional early quality in football and represented the Clans up to minor level. But soccer was his first calling and the Quay Celtic club lost one of its most inspirational forces when Sean passed away suddenly at his home, aged 48.
John Fitzsimons (Louth village) From Stonetown, John Fitzsimons passed away at Louth County Hospital on April 17 2008, aged 83. He lived in the Louth locality all his life and played football for Annaghminnon Rovers in his youth. He maintained a keen interest in sport and the Annaghminnon club throughout his life.
Catherine Matthews (Drogheda) Dooley Gate lady Catherine ‘Kitty’ Matthews (nee Moss) was a keen supporter of gaelic football all her life.
James Maguire (Baltray) Mullingar native James ‘Jim’ Maguire worked and lived in Baltray village since 1975. Though more renowned for golf and Pitch and Putt, his love of gaelic football saw him represent Bettystown, St Patrick’s Stamullen and the defunct Naomh Mhuire club, with whom he won an Old Gaels Cup. Patrick Lynch (Drogheda) A former West Street shop owner, the late Paddy Lynch of Drogheda and Dublin passed away in Tallaght Hospital in October 2007. He was a great Republican and Gael, enjoying connections with Owen Roes GFC. Paddy became a renowned referee, particularly in hurling, and he was later involved with the Thomas Davis club in Tallaght. He also refereed in the capital.
Christopher Kirwan (Clogherhead) Popular Clogherhead man Christy Kirwan lost his life tragically in an accident on December 7 2007. He was originally from the Smokey Hill part of the village and took to gaelic football as a young man. He went on to represent the Dreadnots for over a decade. He also held great passions for soccer and for Irish music.
Kevin Tuite (Dundalk) Kevin Tuite of 190 Oaklawns, Dundalk, was born and bred on the Point Road and held a great affinity for the area all his life. He possessed a deep passion for sport, especially gaelic football, and regularly travelled to big games in Croke Park.
Anthony McKeown (Dundalk) The late Anthony McKeown of 32 Fr Murray Park passed away in St Joseph’s, Ardee on April 25 2008, aged 92. He was a big Louth supporter, who followed the Wee County through thick and thin for over 60 years and was a proud man when his brother pulled on the red jersey.
Bridget Rogers (Dundalk) From Muirhevna on the town’s Dublin Road, Bridget Rogers hailed originally from Greyacre Road in Kilkerley. She was 77 years old when she passed away on May 20 2008, at Louth County Hospital. From her days playing camogie with Kilkerley as a young girl, she maintained a keen interest in sport – and especially the GAA – all her life.
Brendan McArdle (Castlebellingham) Louth gaels were saddened greatly by the death on May 2 2008 of former Roche Emmets and Louth footballer Brendan McArdle from Greenmount, Castlebellingham. Originally of Faughart House, Mountpleasant, Brendan maintained a keen interest in gaelic football throughout his life. With Roche Emmets, he won a vast array of medals, including senior championship, Cardinal O’Donnell Cup, McArdle Cup, Old Gaels Cup, second division and junior championship. He wore the Louth jersey too and collected a Leinster JFC medal with the Wee County in 1957. He was co-author, alongside Niall Craven and Willie Treacy, of “Football Feats of Faughart”, which provides a detailed record of sport in the parish. Members of Roche Emmets GFC provided a Guard of Honour at Brendan’s removal.
Patrick Finnegan (Carlingford) Originally from Ardpatrick, Paddy Finnegan passed away peacefully at his Lemoneigh, Carlingford home on May 28 2008. Paddy played for St Mochtas in his youth and won a second division championship medal in 1956. He lived with his wife Elizabeth in Tallanstown from 1959 until 1997, when they moved to Carlingford.
Tommy Powderly (Philipstown) Tom Powderly was a founding member of St Kevins GFC and featured prominently on their earliest teams. He was a half back on the 1957 Second Division championship winning side and served the club as secretary on two occasions – 1954-56 and 1993-96. He also regularly helped out with pitch preparations and was on hand to provide guidance when camogie started up in the club. Tommy was an honorary member of the club and was largely responsible for writing the book celebrating St Kevins’ history. He is a former Club Man of the Year.
Dan McCabe (Collon) From Oriel Road, Collon, Dan McCabe was well known in the business community as the man behind a thriving motor dealership in Slane, and more recently in Dundalk. Dan was also a former star footballer with Mattock Rangers. The club was only former in 1952 and he was one of their first players, winning championship medals in 1960 (second division) and ’61 (junior). Mattock faced Newtown Blues in the 1962 SFC decider but were denied a famous three-in-a-row of successes at Ardee. After he hung up his boots, Dan remained active as a supporter and fundraiser within the club. Mattock Rangers GFC provided a Guard of Honour at his removal.
Catherine Mulroy (Clogherhead) The village of Clogherhead was greatly saddened by the passing on March 5 2008 of Catherine Mulroy (nee Kirwan). Catherine was a big Dreadnots supporter and took great pride in watching her sons line out for the local club.
Michael Gerard Connor (Jenkinstown) From Annaloughan, Jenkinstown, the late Gerry Connor passed away on June 15 2008 in the Louth Hospital. Gerry loved the local peninsula environment and stayed there for his entire 87 years. He maintained many strong friendships from his football playing days and took great pride in the achievements of his grandsons on the field of play.
Patrick Jackson (Dundalk) Patrick Jackson from Ashling Park, who died on June 3 2008, was originally from Drogheda but had made Dundalk his home for 50 years. He was a passionate supporter of Clan na Gael, attending games regularly and taking in the Sunday night dominoes sessions in the clubrooms. He was also a member of the Clans quiz team.
Paddy Duffy (Dowdallshill) Paddy Duffy from “The Stream” was an intrinsic part of the community in Dowdallshill and served the local GAA club all his life. It came as a massive blow to both club and community when Paddy passed away on July 4 2008 following a short illness. His home was just a stone’s throw from St Brigid’s Park and Paddy – still a minor at the time – was the youngest member of the 1970 JFC-winning side. He continued to play for the Dowdallers until well into his 30s and became known as a strong and resolute full back. After retiring, he continued to serve the club in a variety of capacities, including treasurer and County Board delegate. His sons Eamonn and Sean have followed in his footsteps – both are playing members of Dowdallshill GFC, while his daughter Elaine also plays ladies football locally. Paddy Duffy will be sorely missed by all his friends and family in Dowdallshill.
Pat Kevin McArdle (Knockbridge) Dunbin native Pat Kevin McArdle died suddenly on July 15 2008, aged 87. He moved to Grange, Knockbridge in 1960 and built his family home there, also running the family farm. He had a keen interest in gaelic football and supported the local St Brides club enthusiastically. He was also a founder member of Knockbridge IFA.
Nial O Maolagain (Dundalk) The late Nial O Maolagain (Mulligan) from Mount Avenue and formerly of Bridge Street passed away on August 17 2008. Nial had a deep love of all aspects of Irish culture, including the native tongue, politics and gaelic games.
Michael ‘Huckle’ Byrne (Knockbridge) Michael ‘Huckle’ Byrne, who passed away in late September 2008 at the age of 84, was right corner back on the Louth team controversially beaten by Mayo in the 1950 All-Ireland senior football final in front of over 76,000 spectators. He won a junior championship medal with St Brides in 1949, when they defeated Kilkerley in the final. He also lined out in two more county JFC deciders in 1958 and ’59. Huckle played for Louth during their golden era and will be remembered as one of the county’s finest backs. He was coach alongside Fintan Wynne when St Brides won the 1968 junior title and again when the Cardinal O’Donnell was collected the following year. He was also a former Brides committee member and club chairman. It was fitting that Huckle’s coffin was draped in the red and white of his beloved club at his funeral. A minute’s silence was held in memory of the former Wee County star before the 2008 Louth SFC final meeting of Newtown Blues and Mattock Rangers at the Gaelic Grounds.
Michael McDonnell (Knockbridge) Michael ‘Mickey’ McDonnell of Fane Valley, Knockbridge, Dundalk was part of a family that gave tremendous service to the GAA. He passed away on November 4 2008, aged 82. He was one of seven brothers, most of whom wore the colours of Darver Volunteers and was one of the most versatile players ever to line out for the Wee County, winning two Leinster SFC medals. Darver Volunteers clubman Mickey wore the red of Louth with distinction. He won a Leinster senior football championship with the Wee County in 1950 and came off the bench for the All-Ireland final that year as Louth were unluckily beaten by Mayo. He was at midfield in 1953 as Louth won the provincial championship again, with his brother Jimmy a regular at centre forward during those years. His brother-in-law Stephen White was left half back. An extremely versatile player, Mickey lined out in all positions for Louth, including goalkeeper. He was a founder member of Darver Volunteers in 1945 and garnered a second division in 1947 before captaining the club to JFC success in 1956. After the Volunteers amalgamated with Dromiskin Unknowns to give rise to St Josephs, Mickey maintained a strong association with the new club. He served as a committee member and selector and was involved in the 1971 JFC win and the intermediate breakthrough twelve years later. As there were few minor teams in rural areas when the McDonnell brothers were growing up, they joined St Marys in Ardee and Jimmy and Mickey won MFC souvenirs together in 1943. Throughout his life, Mickey McDonnell made an enormous contribution to Louth GAA. Joseph ‘Hookey’ Leonard (Haggardstown) Louth GAA lost one of its all-round greats with the passing on November 7 2008 at Louth County Hospital of Joseph Leonard from Errislannan, Dublin Road, Haggardstown, Dundalk. Aged 88, ‘Joe’ or ‘Hookey’ as he was affectionately known, was well regarded by everybody in sport. As well as his outstanding playing career with Dundalk Gaels, Louth and Dublin, he was also a top administrator within the game. The name ‘Hookey’ became well known all over the Wee County in 1943 when Joe Leonard won a Leinster SFC medal with Louth. Joe also captured three SFCs with Gaels, in 1942, ’45 and ’52. In the capital, he lined out in a Dublin senior county final for Clan na Gael against the might St Vincents. He also represented Dublin in the intercounty arena. Joe was also a noted referee and he officiated over the 1950 national football league final between neighbours Meath and Cavan, as well as four Louth county finals. He became deeply involved in administration at club and county levels. He acted as County Board vice chairman and was Dundalk Gaels trustee at the time of his death. At his removal, members of the Gaels turned out in force to bid farewell to one of their finest. The coffin was draped in the Gaels and Louth colours with former playing colleagues amongst those providing the guard of honour. A minute’s silence was held for ‘Hookey’ before the Leinster club championship meeting of Newtown Blues and Kilmacud Crokes at Parnell Park.
Hugh James McGivern (Dundalk) On October 22 2008, Hugh James McGivern of 40 Fatima Court passed away at Louth County Hospital, aged 80. Jimmy was a member of the Sean O’Mahonys team that won the Macardle Cup in 1946 and he held a great love of gaelic games – and all sports – throughout his life.
Tom Joe Coleman (Ardee) Originally from Hilltop in Ardee, Tom Joe Coleman spent the latter part of his life in Dundalk, at Glenwood. He passed away on October 23 2008. He was heavily involved with his hometown club and won a SFC and Cardinal O’Donnell Cup medal with St Marys in 1971. After marrying Rose and moving to Dundalk, he played with Naomh Malachi for a while. Tom Joe invested plenty of time back into the game and was coach of the Glenmuir-Hill Street Cumann Peile na nOg area selection that produced his own son David Coleman, Aidan Delaney, Ray Rooney and Martin Harvey, all of whom represented Louth in minor and senior grades. Tom Joe’s brother Patsy was part of the Wee County’s 1957 All-Ireland final success and the match ball from the final was one of the personal gifts brought to the altar at his requiem mass.
Patrick McKeown (Louth Village) Patrick ‘Patsy’ McKeown of Channonrock, Louth passed away peacefully at his home on October 20 2008, aged 87. From Inniskeen originally, Patsy was a stalwart of the now-disbanded Fane Rangers GFC, who he served as a goalkeeper and later as a committee member.
Paddy Sweeney (Ardee) The John Mitchels Football Club was saddened this year by the passing of club member Paddy Sweeney. Paddy played all of his football with the Sean O’Carrolls and on the formation of the Mitchels became an invaluable and loyal member. He regularly participated in the club’s fundraising efforts and took a keen interest in the affairs of the club. The Sweeney family have strong links with the club and Paddy’s brother James is the current Chairman. The club provided a Guard of Honour at Paddy’s funeral and he will be sadly missed by all in the Ballybailie area. - John Mitchells GFC
Paddy Kirk (Dundalk) The Dowdallshill club lost another of its former stalwarts on the final day of October 2008, with the sad passing of Paddy Kirk. Paddy boasted a lifetime’s involvement with the Dowdallshill club, and as a player, was part of the ‘golden era’ of the early 1950s. He played at right half back on the team that captured the 1951 JFC at the expense of the Oliver Plunketts (after a replay), and was also on the team that reached the senior final the following year (against the Gaels). Remarkably, 18 years later, he was also part of the panel, for the junior championship victory over a fancied St Patricks side. During his playing days and beyond, Paddy sat on various Dowdallshill club committees, while he also took up the whistle after his playing days ended. On the day of his funeral, his coffin was draped in the Dowdallshill colours, and a guard of honour was formed by club members. May he rest in peace. - Dowdallshill GFC
Joe Tenanty (St Kevins) Joe Tenanty who died on 20th June 2008 was, along with his late brothers Paddy and Mike. a founder member of St Kevins GFC. A very promising player in the first years of the club, he had his playing career cut short by a serious leg injury, but he remained a staunch supporter all his life. Joe was predeceased by Paddy and Mike. His sister Kitty died in October 2008. He is survived by his sister Rose, also his cousins and a large circle of friends. He was 79 years of age. - St Kevins GFC John Hoey (Omeath) John Hoey, a native of Bavan, Omeath passed away on the 6th of July 2008 following a short battle with illness. John was a vibrant and popular member of the local community. He was educated in St Brigid’s National School, Ardaghy, Omeath and Bush Post Primary School, Riverstown Dundalk. John left Omeath in 1953, aged 19, bound for England. He spent 20 years working for some of the most respected companies in England and Wales, returning home to Omeath whenever work permitted. He was a passionate follower of the GAA and soccer. He was a keen supporter and advocate for the establishment of a Gaelic Football Club in Omeath. With the establishment of Cuchulainn Gaels, John quickly became a loyal and committed supporter. John supported and enjoyed Gaelic Football at local and intercounty levels. He was widely known for his interest and support for Killeavy GAC and the Armagh senior football team, travelling all over the country to matches. John was also a keen soccer enthusiast. He followed closely the progress of Manchester United and Celtic. He was a member of the Celtic Supporters Club and often would travel to Glasgow to attend games. John was an outgoing and friendly person who always had time for those around him. He will be fondly remembered for his amazing warmth and sense of humour. - Cuchulainn Gaels GFC