The late Gerry Kennedy It is with deep regret that we record the death of Mr Gerry Kennedy, 45 Gracedieu Road, Waterford. Aged 62 years, he passed away suddenly while attending a funeral of a relative, far too early for his family and friends. Remains were removed from Thompson's funeral home on Monday, 13th February, 2006, to St. Patrick's Church, George Street, where they were received by Fr. Joe Condon, PP. Requiem Mass was celebrated at 10:30 a.m. the following day by Canon Slattery, Cathedral and St. Patrick's; Fr. Murphy, PP, St. Mary's Ballygunner, and Fr. O'Byrne, St. Nicholas' Ballyduff. His brother, Michael Kennedy, sang the opening hymn and John McManus supported by organist, Deirdre Atkins, sang appropriate hymns throughout the service. He left the church to his final resting place to his favourite song, Edelweiss. Gerry's grand-daughter, Niamh Kennedy and niece, Maria Flannelly, recited the sacred readings, and prayers of the faithful were versed by his daughters-in-law, Susan, Gillian and Jane. John, Colm, and Faye, three of Gerry's grandchildren, led the offertory procession. In his homily, Canon Slattery reflected on Gerry's many qualities as a man, not least his love and devotion to his wife, Kathleen; sons, Anthony, Gerry and Mark, along with grandchildren, Niamh, Dylan, John, Colm, Aoife, Faye and Rhea. He recalled on many conversations he had with his extending ...over the years that he had known him, always with a smile. A man of few words, his quietness and the way in which he conducted his life was admirable, never faltering in his care and love for his family. None would argue that his passion for life was reflected in the great fame of hurling, having played himself as a youth for Cnoc Sion. Indeed, Waterford hurling has lost one of its greatest supporters and advocates of The Deise. From training sessions, league fames and the championship itself, many a journey was set off with the bunting ablaze on the house and car. Copious amounts of ribs and ham sandwiches were consumed to satisfy the hunger brought on by the anxiety of the impending game. He would have been as proud as punch to see his team run out as All Ireland champions up in the field. Following requiem Mass, internment took place in St. Otteran's Cemetery, Ballinaneashagh. His brother, Michael, sang Hail Queen of Heaven as the was finally laid to rest. His son, Anthony, reflected on his father's attributes as a husband and father and extended gratitude on behalf of the family to all those who had assisted Gerry and his final hours. A special thanks was extended to Sgt. Sean Fitzgerald; John Thompson; Waterford Regional Hospital A&E; Paul (Harvey) O'Connor, Seamus Grant and Eddie Hurley. With strong family roots, Mr. Kennedy of Kilaspy and Mary Kennedy (nee Wells, formerly of Ballygunner) who lived at Morley Terrace, Gracedieu Road. Gerry is predeceased by his brother, Ned Kennedy, PC, Gracedieu Road; brother Sean Kennedy, formerly of Kerrypark Tce., and sister, Kitty Halpin, Francis St., Waterford. Gerry is survived by his wife, Kathleen, Morley Tce.; sons, Anthony, Avondale; Gerry, Foxwood, Carriganure, and Mark, Carriganard, Butlerstown; his brother, Michael, Ursuline Court, and his sister, Maura Flannelly, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone; seven grandchildren, brothers -in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and a great many friends. The esteem in which Mr. Kennedy was held in the community was reflected by the large numbers attending during the inclement weather for the removal and against requiem Mass and final retirement. Gerry's month's mind Mass will be offered on this Saturday, March 18, in St Patrick's Church at 10.30am. The family would wish to acknowledge and express its sincere appreciation and many thanks for the extended sympathy and support shown during this sad time. The holy sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for the intentions of all. Ar dheis De go raibh se. Courtesy of the Waterford News & Star 17 March 2006 Tweet

Most Read Stories