Cavan Obituaries 2001

Mr. Gerry Traynor, Killinkere
The untimely death took place of Gerry Traynor, Greaghdusson, Killinkere on New Year’s Day. One of the leading businessmen in Co. Cavan, he was Killinkere’s finest community activist. He was also a keen GAA supporter and sponsored his local club over the years. A guard of honour was provided by the Killinkere GFC at his funeral to the local Saint Ultan’s cemetery. He is survived by a large family circle and friends.

Philip Cunningham, Kilconny, Belturbet
There was deep regret in the Belturbet area and his native Clones on the death of Philip Cunningham, Kilconny, aged 51 years. A well-known businessman in the area, he had a great love for everything that was for the better of the locality. He was an active member of local organisations and had a keen interest in the GAA affairs of the local club. Drumlane GFC formed a guard of honour at his funeral. He is survived by his wife, Maura; sons Brian and Barry; daughters Geraldine and Majella and immediate family and friends.

Mrs. Lena Lee,Rannrenagh,Denn
Mrs. Lena Lee who died after a short illness in hospital was in her ‘nineties. She was a member of the Young family of Drumgoon, Cornafean a family with a strong GAA tradition. She was sister of the late Willie Young who was honoured as goalkeeper in the Cavan Millennium team. Lena maintained a keen interest in sport all her lifetime.
She was predeceased by her husband, Jim some years ago, and is survived by her extended family and a large circle of friends.

Sean Moynagh,Crossrah (Formerly of “The Rock’’, Dublin St.,Ballyjamesduff)
The unexpected death of Sean Moynagh took place at his home on January 2nd. He was a member of the highly respected Moynagh family of “Lakeview’’, Tonagh, Mountnugent. Sean was the eldest of ten. He was a talented footballer in his early days and captured a senior and junior championship medal with his native Mountnugent club in 1943 and 1946, and was the youngest member of the junior championship side of 1943. He was predeceased by his wife, Violet and is survived by his family and a large circle of friends. He was buried in the new cemetery in Ballyjamesduff.

Bobby Clarke,Annaharnette,Killinkere
The death occurred suddenly in his early ‘seventies of Bobby Clarke. A well-known farmer in the area, Bobby was for many years a consistent and knowledgeable supporter of Killinkere GFC. He is survived by his brother and sister and relatives and was buried in Killinkere cemetery.

Philip Brady, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan
There was great sadness and gloom in the area at the death at 16 years of age of Philip Brady of Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan. Grandson of the late Phil ‘The Gunner’ Brady of Cavan and Mullahoran football fame the youngster was struck down with meningitis. He was the eldest son of Martin and Mary Brady, and sympathy is extended to them and the family, and also to their grandmother, Rita.

Danny Fitzpatrick, Maynooth, Co. Kildare
Young and old were stunned with the news of the unexpected death at his home in Maynooth of Danny Fitzpatrick, a native of Newtownbutler, Co. Fermanagh. He was married to the former Miss Mae Reilly of Drumnalara, Ballinagh and became not only one of Cavan’s and Ballinagh’s best-known personalities but also the most respected of our people. A keen GAA enthusiast Danny was an ardent supporter of the ‘black and amber’ of Crosserlough GFC. He is survived by his wife Mae, sons and daughters.

Phelim McGovern, London and formerly of Kilmore, Killinkere
Phelim McGovern of London and formerly of Kilmore died suddenly in London in his early ‘sixties. He lived in London for over forty years, and before emigrating was an outstanding footballer in the very good Killinkere side of the late ‘fifties and early ‘sixties. He is survived by his own family in London, and by his mother, Goretto, brother and sisters, relatives and friends. Phelim was buried in London.

Margaret Kelly, Monaghnoose, Bailieborough
Margaret Kelly of Monaghnoose died following a short illness. She was aged 84 years and was the last surviving member of the Tully family of Laragh. A keen follower of Bailieborough Shamrocks GFC and the Cavan county teams, Margaret’s presence within the community will be deeply missed. Her sons, Paddy and Austin are deeply involved with Cavan GAA affairs at club and inter-county levels. Margaret is survived by her husband James; sons and daughters, grandchildren, relatives and friends and a very wide circle of friends. Her remains were laid to rest in St. Ann’s cemetery.

John Joe Brady, 58 Laurel Park, Clondalkin, Dublin.
John’s Joe parents, James and Alice (nee Hourican) owned Bradys Hotel, Main St., Arva back in the ‘thirties and ‘forties, and this premises is now owned by Benny Fitzpatrick. John Joe was a great footballer in his youth and played for Cavan minor teams in 1937 and ‘38 – the only Cavan teams to win an All-Ireland minor title. John Joe played in goals but missed playing in the ‘38 final because of an appendix operation. He went to live in Dublin in the ‘forties. John Joe was in Arva for the Centenary Celebrations of the GAA in 1984, and on that occasion he met for the first time since the ‘37 All-Ireland minor final Fr. Harry Bouchier, who was a team-mate in the All-Ireland winning sides.John Joe was predeceased by his brother, Michael, and is survived by his wife, Sarah, son and daughters and many relatives.

Brigid Galligan, Dunliffe, Denn
There was much regret in the Denn parish at the death of Brigid Galligan, Dunliffe. She was the youngest of six girls and spent many years in the hotel trade. A keen follower of GAA games, she was a regular attender at inter-county and club games in her native county. She was predeceased by her sisters and was buried in Crosskeys cemetery.

Mrs. Bernadette Brogan, The Villa, Virginia
There was deep sadness in the Virginia area at the untimely death of Mrs. Bernadette Brogan. She was very popular in the Virginia area and was involved with the local ladies football club and Lurgan under-age football teams. She is survived by her husband, Jimmy and family and a large circle of friends. Her funeral was one of the largest seen in the area for many a long time.

Kathleen Brady, Corratubber, Ballyhaise
She was aged 77 years. Nee Reilly from Fairtown, she had been ill for only a short time. Kathleen had a great interest in gaelic games and was a former camogie player. She was a regular attender to Breffni Park up until recent times. She is survived by her daughter, Eileen Briody from Corratubber.

Frank Bouchier, Blackrock, Dublin and late of Main St., Arva
He was a member of the Bank of Ireland Head Office staff and spent most of his working life in Dublin until he retired in 1981. Frank played football for Arva and Cormore and was a member of McRory Cup side in St. Pat’s College in Cavan, He also played a little rugby in Dublin. Frank is sur-vived by his wife, Deirdre; children and brothers, Con and Fr. Liam in Arva, and Fr. Harry in Coronea. The Bouchier family are well-known in business and GAA sporting circles in Co. Cavan down the years.

Paddy McEnerney, England – a native of Shannow, Ballinagh
The death occurred in England of Paddy McEnerney, late of Shannow, and son of the late Harry and Mrs. McEnerney. Before he emigrated many years ago he was a brilliant footballer. Paddy made his debut with Ballinagh in 1945, and soon made the No. 15 jersey his own turning in many memorable performances over several seasons. He is survived by his brothers and sisters to whom sympathy is extended. His remains were taken home and he was buried in Ballinagh.

Colm Smith, Bridge St., Cootehill
The death took place on the 18th of February of Colm Smith a member of one of the town’s oldest families who spent all his life in Cootehill. In his early years he was a keen GAA player and played with distinction with Cootehill Celtic. He also played with Cavan at junior and senior grades. Colm lined out in the Dr. McKenna Cup Final of 1937 when Cavan defeated Armagh in ‘Blayney. He was described by one of his GAA colleagues “as the backbone of the Cootehill team and a link man between two generations of football.’’He is survived by his wife, Peggy; sons, brothers and sisters and a large family circle.

Patrick Ryan, Enagh, Virginia
Patrick a native of Thurles, Co. Tipperary came to reside in Enagh about five years ago. He played hurling in his youth with the famed Thurles Sarsfields and always maintained a great love and interest in the game. He is survived by his wife, Anne, daughters; sons and family and was buried in Virginia.

Donal (Donie) Smith, Pullamore, Cavan
Aged 74, Donie was one of the best-known personalities in the Pullamore area. He was a very progressive farmer and his great other passion off the farm was football. Donie began his footballing career with Stradone in 1948. However, it was with Lavey that he achieved his first honours when they won the 1950 Cavan JFC title and followed this up in 1951 by winning the senior title. He continued playing with Lavey throughout the ‘fifties. In 1968 he trained the then recently formed Killygarry team when they won the junior league title, their very first major county title. He also took the club to their very first county championship honours in 1970 when they won the I.F.C. Donie also played on the Cavan junior county teams of ‘52 and ‘53 and was on the county senior panel for a number of years, including the period which marked the re-opening of Breffni Park in 1952. He is survived by his two sisters and family relatives.

Peter Brennan, Cortober, Arva
The death of Peter Brennan removed from the Gowna area one of its best-known and likeable citizens. He took a very keen interest in all sports and was a dedicated supporter of Gowna GFC. He is survived by his wife, Eileen; sons and daughters.

Joe McCusker, Ballintemple
One of life’s gentlemen, Joe was much admired and highly respected by all who knew him. He was a man of many talents and hobbies chief amongst them being his great love of football and he followed the fortunes of his beloved Lacken Celtic with interest all his life. Joe is survived by his wife, Annie; sons and a large circle of friends.

Patrick Mulvany, Lurganboy, Virginia
Patrick was very a popular and respected member of the community. He was an ardent follower of Munterconnacht GFC. He is survived by his wife, Olive in Oldcastle sons, sister and brother. He was buried in Munterconnacht.

Joseph Cosgrove, Lacken, Ballinagh
In his ‘eighties, Joe was a well-known and respected member of the community. He was a prominent member of the Lacken Celtic GFC, and a keen supporter of the GAA in general. He is survived by his wife, Annie; sons and a large family circle to whom sympathy is extended.

Danny McHugh, Milford, Co. Donegal
Danny lived and worked in Co. Cavan for many years. In his adopted town of Ballinagh he was a firm favourite with people of all walks of life. A staunch GAA enthusiast he served as Secretary of Ballinagh in the ‘forties and was a valued member of Cavan Co. Board from 1945 to 1949 – a period which saw our senior county team play in four All-Ireland Finals, collecting ‘Sam’ on two occasions. He is survived by his wife, Anna; sons, daughter and a large circle of friends. He was buried in Milford, Co. Donegal.

Karl Courtney, Virginia
The death of 20 year-old Karl Courtney, had a tangible effect on the local community. A keen sportsman all his short life, Karl was a talented under-age footballer with Lurgan GFC and was a keen supporter of the local club, Ramor Utd. and Cavan county side. He was predeceased by his father, Dan only three years ago, and is survived by his mother, Annie, sisters and brothers.

Bridget McGovern (nee O’Reilly), Mill St., Swanlinbar
Bridget died peacefully at her home aged 86. She was a dedicated follower of G.A.A. affairs, of which her family are deeply involved. She is survived by her sons and daughters and family.

Joseph Farrelly, Drumrath, Virginia
Joseph died suddenly, aged 74 years. A noted footballer in his early days with Cross GFC, he even played with Wicklow county side a number of times when he resided in Bray. He is survived by his wife, Eileen; sons, daughters, brother and sister and a large family circle. He was buried in Mullagh.

Charles Maguire, Drummersee
Charles died after a short illness in Lisdarn Hospital in Cavan. He was aged 72 years and was a great supporter of GAA, attending all club games in the area until his illness.

Seamus McCabe, Publican, Main St., Kingscourt
Seamus was a life-long supporter of Kingscourt Stars GFC and travelled to all their matches. His pub, “McCabe’s’’ was a meeting place for local GAA followers down the years. His late father, James McCabe was a member of the first park development committee.He is survived by his brothers Patrick in Dublin, Brendan in Dublin and sister, Sheila in Kingscourt. At the removal the members of Kingscourt Stars GFC carried his coffin which had a football jersey placed on it.

Tommy McCormick, Elmbank Hatchery, Cavan
One of Co. Cavan’s best-known business people, Tommy McCormick passed away aged 89 years. Tommy had a passion for all sports. He was an avid GAA fan, rarely missing a game, regardless of the distance. Although a native of Corcaghan, Co. Monaghan he had a great love for his adopted county. He is survived by his wife, Jan; son, daughters and a large family circle. He was buried in Killygarry cemetery.

Mrs. Bridget Gumley, Cavan Road, Ballinagh
A very popular and good humoured person, ‘Bridgie’ was a general favourite in her native area. A member of the Gaffney family from Corduff, she was a fanatic GAA enthusiast and never missed a game in Ballinagh, Lacken or Breffni Park. Her family are all deeply involved with the GAA locally. She is survived by her husband, Phil; sons, daughters and a large family circle.

Michael Flanagan, Cootehill Road, Cavan
Mick died suddenly aged 79 years. A native of Elphin, Co. Roscommon. He was a keen follower of his native county side, and also took a keen interest in local football teams in Cavan. His son Michael was a prominent member of Cavan Gaels GFC for many years. He is survived by his wife, Mona; sons, daughter and one sister. He is buried in Killygarry cemetery.

Maurice McCabe, late of Mountainlodge, Cootehill
Maurice was a keen GAA supporter and followed the ups and downs of Cavan football passionately. It was these qualities and the high profile of his business that made him a household name throughout the county. He is survived by his wife, Nance; sons, daughters, brother and sister and a large family circle. His funeral took place from Saint Brigid’s Church, Carrickallen to the adjoining cemetery.

Tommy Hamill, Carrickacreeney
Tommy was a keen supporter of the GAA and travelled to all the games over the years. He is the last surviving member of the Hamill family of Mullahard, Burial took place to Saint Patrick’s cemetery, Bawn.

Margaret and Michael Clarke Mullagh
There was great sadness in Mullagh parish and beyond at the deaths of Margaret Clarke and her son Michael a few months prior. They belonged to one of Mullagh’s oldest, most active and respected families. Like all the Clarkes they took a keen interest in Cavan football affairs and all things gaelic. Margaret is survived by other sons Jim, Paddy, Charles and Noel and daughters Rhoda and Margaret and by a host of relations and friends.

Frank Farrelly, Greaghafarna
Frank was a well-known farmer in his local area. His big sporting interest was Gaelic Football and he followed both Cavan and Killinkere teams down the years. Indeed, he watched both these teams on the week-end before his death. He is survived by his brother, Patsy; sister Molly, relatives and friends.

Bertie Cronin, Moynehall, Cavan
Bertie was a popular and well-known member of the local community. His sudden death at the age of 51 came as a great shock. He was a keen follower of GAA in the county, and was a regular attender at club and county games. Bertie is survived by his wife, Susan; sons and daughter, brothers and sisters, and a large family circle. The funeral took place to Killygarry cemetery.

Michael Fitzpatrick, San Francisco and formerly of Drumora
Michael was aged 92 years when he died. He was the last surviving member of the Fitzpatrick family. He was a well-known publican in the States. Before emigrating he was a noted footballer with Cornafean in the mid ‘twenties. After his arrival in San Francisco he founded a GAA club in 1932 and captained the new club to championship success the following year. Sympathy is extended to his relatives in Ireland and the United States.

Leonard Brady, Cavan Road, Virginia
The death of Leonard Brady, Cavan Rd., Virginia aged 53, deeply saddened the whole community and is regretted far beyond the boundaries of parish and county. He was a well-known and successful businessman. Leonard had a great love for sport, and was a keen follower of gaelic games following the fortunes of Ramor Utd., Laragh United and of course the Cavan county team. He is survived by his wife, Julienne; sons, daughters, and mother, Mrs. Josie Brady in Dublin and sister, Mrs. Ita Lee also in Dublin.

Mrs. Kathleen Moriarty, formerly of Dublin Rd., Ballinagh.
Kathleen died in Galway, and the news of her death was regretted in the Ballinagh area. Wife of the late Sean Moriarty, N.T., she along with her husband had a great interest in GAA affairs locally and nationally. Indeed her husband, Sean was a prominent in GAA circles at club and county levels all through his life. Kathleen was buried in Ballinagh and sympathy is extended to her relatives and friends.

Seamus Lynch, ex-NT and Councillor, Lurganboy, Virginia
One of the best-known personalities in the Virginia area, Seamus Lynch passed away aged 83 years. He was involved in everything that was for the betterment of his local area. An active member of Munterconnacht GFC all his life, Seamus served in various capacities with the club down the years. He is survived by his wife, Mary; son, daughter and family to whom sympathy is extended.

Brian Crowe, Kilnavara, Cavan
There was deep regret at the death of Brian Crowe, Kilnavara, Cavan in St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin after a brief illness. Aged 65 he was son of the late Tom and Kathleen Crowe. His father Tom was a well-known football star in the ‘thirties and won an All-Ireland medal in Cavan’s first All-Ireland title win in 1933. Brian had a keen interest in GAA, and attended many club and county games over the years. He is survived by his wife, Anna; sons and daughter and a large family circle. He was buried in Cullies cemetery.

Mrs. Christina Lynch, Corduff, Ballintemple
Christina lived a long and healthy life, before passing away aged 92 years. She was grandmother of the McCabe footballing family, Gowna and Gunner Brady’s (Danny’s) from Mullahoran and they made her very proud and happy through their achievements on the football fields in recent times. She was one of the oldest residents in the parish and is survived by her sons and daughters to whom sympathy is extended. She was buried in Mullaghboy cemetery.

John Lynch, Stramatt, Virginia
Aged 73 years, John worked in the building trade and had a small farm. He was a loyal follower of the GAA, and after his family, Johns real passion was for the furtherance of the GAA in the locality and at county level. He was an outstanding player with Maghera MacFinns GFC and guided them to a junior championship success in 1973. The following year he went a step further with an intermediate success, and John also brought Maghera forward to senior football in the following years. A regular attender at GAA games club and county all his life, he also contributed much to the development of football at county under-age level, being a prominent member of the Cavan Minor Board. He was also selector with county minor and under-16 teams on numerous occasions. He is survived by his wife, Eileen; sons, Tony, Martin and Sean and sisters.

Tommy McDonald formerly of Doocarrick, Lisnageer
Tommy who died aged 71 years worked for 39 years in the pub trade in Dublin. He had a tremendous interest in Gaelic football and a great love for his native county. He is survived by his wife, Eileen; daughters and brothers to whom deepest sympathy is extended. His funeral took place in Fingal, Dublin.

James (Jimmy) Fitzpatrick, Ballinagh
For many years he was the local postman in the Ballinagh area. However, he was best-known for his interest and loyalty to the GAA. He never missed a championship fixture involving Cavan since the memorable Polo Grounds Final in New York in 1947 which was surely some sporting record. He was also deeply involved with the Ballinagh club and acted as Club Chairman for a number of years. Jimmy was in the chair when they won the Cavan JFC title in 1953. He is survived by his wife, Cissy; brothers Phil and John and a very large family circle.

Joe Stafford, Dublin late of Waterloo, Bailieborough.
A footballer of renown, Joe was one of Cavan stars in the late ‘thirties and throughout the forties helping the Breffni county to win All-Ireland titles in 1947 in the Polo Grounds, New York and in 1948, and a National League title in 1948. He was also selected on numerous Ulster Railway Cup teams during the ‘forties. He celebrated his 82nd birthday last March, and in club and county football all his life Joe was a shining star. A member of one of the best-known football families in Co. Cavan, Joe’s two brothers, Tom and Mattie also played for the home club, Killinkere; and Mattie played with Cavan. Joe’s nephew Jimmy played for Cavan and Killinkere in the ‘sixties and won two Ulster S.F. championship medals. Although he lived and worked in Dublin for most of his life, Joe visited his native county regularly, and was one of the real personalities on the Cavan football scene right up to his death. He is survived by his three daughters, Claire, Bernie and Maura and family. His funeral took place from St. Mary’s Church, Clanphillip to the adjoining cemetery.

James (Jimmy) Veale, Main St., Cavan
A native of Dungarvan, Co, Waterford, Jimmy came to work in Cavan in 1953 with the Anglo-Celt, newspaper. He was a keen hurling fan, and worked hard to establish the ancient game in Cavan town and county. His son, Peter is a prominent member of the Cavan Gaels GFC, and also like his dad an avid follower of hurling. Jimmy is survived by his wife, Mary; son Peter and daughter, Regina; brothers and sisters. He was buried in Cullies cemetery.

Pat Lee, Lisatoo, Stadone
The death occurred suddenly at the age of 74 of Pat Lee, Lisatoo, Stradone. In his youth he was a well-known referee and player. He was also an official of Drumalee GFC, and a staunch supporter of the club over the years. Pat is survived by his brother James and sisters. Funeral took place to St. Brigid’s Church, Laragh and burial in the adjoining cemetery.

John Gallagher, Ballyhaise
John who was a native of Killygordon, Lifford, Co. Donegal worked for the Dept. of Agriculture in Cavan and Monaghan for many years. He had a keen interest in GAA, and followed both Cavan and Donegals football fortunes religiously down the years. He always supported the local Ballyhaise GFC. John is survived by his wife Ann; sons and daughters and family. He was buried in Castletara cemetery.

Paddy Halton, Coventry, England and late of Dundevan
Paddy was a member of one of the parish’s great footballing families, and like his late brothers Connie and Willie, was a vital member of the great ‘forties Mullahoran championship winning teams. Mullahoran gained senior glory in ‘47 and ‘48. Paddy played midfield, partnering the legendary Phil ‘The Gunner’ Brady. Later he emigrated to England where he had a long and distinguished playing career with Warwickshire. He returned every year to Ireland and always attended the All-Ireland S.F.C. Final. He is survived by his wife and family, and was buried in Coventry.

Tommy McKiernan, St. Patrick’s Terrace, Cavan
Tommy was popular with everyone and during his lifetime he contributed significantly to the community. In his youth Tommy was a talented footballer, playing for the Cavan Harps and Farnham Shamrocks GFC, and winning a place on the Cavan minor county side in the mid-fifties. In latter years he followed the fortunes of Cavan Gaels GFC and the county teams, and was a regular attender at club and county games in Breffni Park. He is survived by his wife, Ann; sons and daughters and a large family circle. He was buried in Killygarry cemetery.

John Cadden, Ballydurrow
John died in St. Joseph’s Nursing Home, Virginia aged 67, after a short illness. In his youth he was an outstanding footballer and was a member of the Virginia Blues team panel which won the county junior championship title in 1958, and the senior titles in ‘59 and ‘62 and the senior league in 1961. He joined Munterconnacht GFC when they were reformed in 1969, and gave them great service. He is survived by his sisters and brothers. Funeral took place to Saint Bartholomew’s Church in Munterconnacht and burial to the adjoining cemetery.

Seamus Gaffney, England and formerly of Cashel, Ballinagh
Like his brothers, Sean and Michael, Seamus was a talented footballer before emigrating. Although away from home he still kept in touch with GAA affairs at local and national levels. He is survived by his wife, Mollie, family; sisters and by relatives and friends.

Seamus McEvoy, Riverdale, The Bronx, New York and formerly of Portan
Before emigrating to the U.S. in the late seventies, Seamus was a valued member of Crosserlough GFC and played at all levels for this famous club. On his arrival in the ‘Big Apple’ he immediately joined the Cavan club, and was a member of the team which won the junior championship in 1980, the first title the club won in 57 years. When Seamus retired he continued to be involved in the administrative side of the club. Sympathy is extended to his family in the U.S.A., Ireland and Britain.

Canon Pat Moynagh, Legwee, Loughduff, Co. Cavan
The death occurred in December of Canon Pat Moynagh of Legwee, Loughduff and formerly of the Diocese of Middlesborough, England. He was in his late ‘eighties. He was a keen GAA fan and in his young days was a talented footballer. He was a prominent member of Saint Mel’s team and was selected to play for Leinster against Munster in the colleges interprovincial games of that era. Pat won a junior cham-pionship medal with Mullahoran in 1940. During his early days in the Middlesborough Diocese he played football with various teams especially in York. He was always interested in the scene in Co. Cavan and especially Mullahoran, and after his retirement was elected Honorary President of Mullahoran GFC. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends. Burial took place in Loughduff cemetery.

Liam Hetherton, Ballydurrow, Virginia
A member of the famous Hetherton footballing family Liam played most of his football with Munterconnacht with whom he played minor, junior and senior grades with distinction. He was a brilliant footballer and an expert freetaker, and was well respected in the area. A brother of Rev. Seamus Hetherton who played for Cavan against Meath in the All-Ireland Final win of 1952, Liam was a keen follower of the game at club and county levels right up to his death.

Mrs. Anne Cosgrove, Lacken, Ballinagh
Anne who died after a long illness was predeceased by her husband, Joseph and is survived by her sons, Paddy, Jim and Tom all of whom were prominent players with the Lacken Celtic GFC down the years. One of her sons, Jim was one of the leading referees in Cavan and the adjoining counties for many years. She is survived by a large family circle and was buried in Potahee cemetery.

Mrs. Mary Carolan, Ardlow, Virginia
There was widespread regret at the death at the great age of 93 years of Mary Carolan. Mary had a keen interest in sport especially gaelic football, a game her three sons excelled in, notably Ray, the great Cavan county footballer of the ‘sixties. She herself was a very skilled and capable camogie player in her youth. Mary was predeceased by her husband, John in 1963, and is survived by three sons Ray, Cavan town; Dessie in Dublin and Matthias in London and three daughters.She was buried in Mullagh cemetery.

Sister Mary J. Moore, Sallaghan, Gowna
Sister Moore was a member of the Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Poor. An ardent supporter of Gowna GFC, her sad passing was remembered in Breffni Park last season when a minutes silence to her memory was observed before the start of the Cavan SFC between Cavan Gaels and Gowna.

Patricia Galligan, Dublin and formerly of Beherna, Virginia
Patricia died after a short illness at the age of 38 years. A niece of Paul Fitzsimons, a member of Cavan’s All-Ireland winning side of 1952, she loved sport and played football and camogie with Maghera. She is survived by her brothers and sisters, and is buried in Munterconnacht cemetery.

Brian Boyle, Bough, Drumgoon
Brian played for Drumgoon GFC in the ‘fifties and ‘sixties, and members of the club formed a guard of honour at the removal of his remains to Middle Chapel. Burial was to the adjoining cemetery. He is survived by his brothers and sisters and many friends.

Caolán McDwyer, Holborn Hill, Belturbet
Caolán was tragically killed in a road accident on the Cavan By-Pass near Butlers-bridge. In the prime of his life, he was a very popular young man in the area. He had a keen interest in football and all sports, and was a member of the Belturbet Rory O’Moores GFC. He is survived by his parents, Ann and Denis; brothers and relatives to whom sympathy is extended. He was buried in Drumalee cemetery.

Mrs. Mary Gannon, Mullahoran
In her early ‘seventies, Mary was formerly Donohoe from nearby Carnagh, and was predeceased by her husband, Val some 14 years ago. Val was a prominent member of the Mullahoran club in the ‘forties and was also a member of the Cavan senior team. He had the distinction of wearing the number one jersey when Cavan defeated Kerry in the Polo Grounds, New York in 1947 to win the All-Ireland title – an historic occasion in the annals of GAA history. She is survived by her sons, daughters, sister and a large circle of friends.

Mrs. Bridie Kiernan,Island, Virginia
Aged 77 years, Bridie was the wife of Luke Kiernan, a former Chairman of Munterconnacht GFC. Bridie herself was a keen follower of gaelic games, and her son, Seamus was a noted player with Munterconnacht, and is a current selector with the Cavan senior county team. Indeed, the Kiernan family have been great supporters of gaelic football down the years. She is survived by her husband, Luke; son Seamus, sisters and a large family circle. She was buried in Munterconnacht cemetery.

Tom Maguire, Mullinacre, Ballyconnell
There was a great sense of loss and shock all over Co. Cavan at the death of Tom Maguire. A native of Templeport, Tom will be best remembered for his great skills as a footballer having played for his native Cavan at all grades with distinction down the years. He also lined out with Ulster in the Railway Cup competitions on many occasions, and was highly rated on the national scene as an outstanding and teak-tough defender. He was also a founder member of Kildallan GFC and was trainer and manager of the club for many years. Tom held a number of officership positions in the Cavan County Board and was a county selector for a number of years. In recent times he was a prominent member of the Slieve Russell Golf Club. Tom is survived by his wife, Maeve; son, Tomas; daughters; brothers, sister, relatives and many friends.

James (Jim) Brady, Drumbannon, Bailieborough
Aged 74 years, Jim was a member of a very well-known and respected Brady family of Galbolie. He was an avid supporter of Bailie-borough Shamrocks GFC and the Cavan county team, and rarely missed a game over the years that either team was involved in. He is survived by his brothers and sister, relatives and friends.

Dessie Dunne, Stroke-on-Trent, England and formerly of Cavan town
Dessie was a member of the popular Dunne family from Cavan town. They were deeply involved with G.A.A. at club and county levels down the years. Dessie’s brother, the late Brendan Dunne was an outstanding footballer with Cavan Harps and was one of the leading lights when the Cavan Gaels GFC was formed in the late ‘fifties. He was uncle of well-known club and county team trainer, Tony Dunne from Ballyhaise. Dessie is survived by his family in England, and was buried at home in Killygarry cemetery.

Patrick (Pat) Delaney, Cashel and formerly of Shannow, Ballinagh
Pat in his youth was an outstanding footballer and gave sterling service to Ballinagh GFC for more than a decade. His most memorable hour in football was in November 1953 when he played the proverbial blinder in helping Ballinagh defeat Kingscourt Stars in the championship final played at a packed Breffni Park, Cavan. Predeceased by his brothers, Edward (Ned) and James he is survived by his sisters and a large family circle. He was buried in Ballinagh cemetery.

Hugh Farrelly, Coravan, Kingscourt
Hugh who was in his 80th year was an ardent GAA follower. In his youth he was a prominent member of the Kingscourt Stars teams of the ‘fifties and ‘sixties. He was a regular attender of games up until recent times. He is survived by his wife, Mary; sons, daughters and a large family circle. He was buried in Kingscourt cemetery.

Mrs. Kathleen Smith, formerly of Main St., Kilnaleck
Another link with past business life in Kilnaleck was broken with the death of Kathleen Smith. Her late husband, Charles, a native of Castlerahan was a member of Kilnaleck GFC which preceded the present Crosserlough GFC. Mrs. Smith too came from a GAA background and was a member of the Reilly family from Corr, many of whom played for Bruskey, Ballintemple and Wateraughey. She is survived by her sons and daughters and family circle.

Mattie Stafford, Mullagh
Mattie was a member of one of Killinkere’s best-known and most popular families – a family who was deeply involved with the GAA down the years. He is survived by his wife, Maire; sons, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends. He was buried in Mullagh.

Jim Corby, Holborn Hill, Belturbet
The late Jim had a great interest in the community and was on many committees including acting as Treasurer of Belturbet Rory O’Moores GFC and was on the committee that was instrumental in purchasing the clubs present fine playing pitch. He also had a great interest in Cavan county team, and also his native Leitrim. His son, Benny is a former playing member of Belturbet Rory O’Moores and has acted as an official in many capacities over the years. Jim is survived by his wife, Rose; sons, daughters and family. He was buried in Staghall cemetery.

Frank Gumley, Costruce, Ballinagh
Deservedly popular, Frank was a famed footballer who gave sterling service to Ballinagh GFC. Over the years he turned in many memorable defensive performances for his home club. He is survived by his wife, Rosaleen; sons; mother, brothers, sisters and a large family circle.

Tadgh McCarthy, Ballyjamesduff
Tadgh was a brilliant footballer in his youth, and gave outstanding service to Ballinagh GFC being a member of the senior team, county finalists in the early ‘sixties. He was a noted free-taker, and over the years was one of the top marksmen in Cavan club football. Tadhg also played with Lacken Celtic GFC in the ‘sixties, and on a number of under-age county teams with his native Cavan. He is survived by his wife, Marie; sons, brother, sisters, relatives and friends.

Mrs. Mary Keaskin, Seeorum, Tunnyduff
Mary was aged 83 years and was well respected in her local area. She had a keen interest in GAA all her life, and was a loyal follower of Knockbride GFC. Mary took great pride in Knockbride’s successes in recent times.

Owenie Reilly, Annaclue, Killinkere
The late Owenie was well-known in the area as the long-time Hon. President of Killinkere GFC for whom his son, Damien was one of the most distinguished players. His other sons also played for the club at juvenile level. He is survived by his wife, Maureen; sons, daughter, brother and sister, relatives and friends. His funeral took place to St. Patrick’s Church, Tierworker.

Owen O’Reilly, Annaclue, Bailieboro’
Aged 86, Owen was a footballer of note with Mullagh GFC in his youth, and all through his lifetime he took a keen interest in football affairs at club and county levels. He is survived by his wife, Maureen; sons, daughter and family.

Mattie Farrelly, New York and formerly of Correagh
Mattie went to the USA over forty years ago and was very active in various organisations in particular the GAA. He managed the Cavan ladies football team in New York to much success in recent years. Prior to emigrating he was a prominent player with the Virginia Blues sides of the ‘fifties and ‘sixties. Sympathy is extended to his brother, Michael in Correagh and sister, Bridget in New York.
Peter Smith, Aghawelia, Ballintemple
Peter had many hobbies in life, and football was one of them. He won a junior medal with Mullahoran in 1939, where he lived in his youth. He is survived by his sons, daughters, brother and sisters and a family circle.

Pat Clarke, Greaghnacurrin, Killinkere
Although 80 years of age he had remained active until very recently. In his early years Pat overcame a serious eye injury to forge for himself a distinguished footballing career. He won an Ulster minor championship medal with Cavan and also represented the county at senior level. He was one of the stars of the great Killinkere team of the ‘thirties and ‘forties when they challenged Cornafean for football supremacy in the Breffni county. He is survived by his wife, Bridget and all his many relatives and friends. He was buried in Bailieborough cemetery.

Sean Boylan, Earlsvale Road and formerly of Church St.
Aged 71 years, Sean was closely involved with the GAA for many years, firstly with Ballyhaise GFC where he was one of those who helped to re-organise the club in the late ‘fifties. In recent times his allegiance was to Drumalee GFC where he was behind the development of the fine Saint Felim’s grounds. One of his brothers, Tom is the long serving Treasurer of Cavan Co. Board and one of the best-known GAA officials not alone in Cavan but throughout Ulster. Sean is survived by his wife Gretta; brothers, and was predeceased by his sisters in recent times. He was buried in Killygarry cemetery.

Bridget Rooney, Corranure, Ballyhaise
Bridget was in her ‘eighties and was predeceased by her husband Peter, fifteen years ago. She had a great interest in politics and the GAA and followed the progress of the local club and Cavan county teams over the years. Bridget is survived by her sons, daughters and family. She is buried in Castletara cemetery.
Sean Connolly, Tandragee, Bailieboro’
The entire community was deeply saddened by the unexpected death of Sean Connolly, Tandragee in Cavan General Hospital. Aged 65, he was a well-known figure in the community, and was an avid member of the Bailieboro’ Shamrocks GFC down the years. A keen sportsman he also followed the fortunes of the county team and was a regular attender at club and county games. Sean is survived by his wife, Jean (nee Johnston) son and daughter and a large family circle. He was laid to rest in St. Ann’s cemetery.

James Hetherton, Coronagh, Virigina
96 year old James Hetherton was quite active until recently, and was a well-known and popular figure for many years in the area. He was the last surviving member of the famous Munterconnacht team which was formed in 1927 and won the county junior title the following year. James was predeceased by his wife Annie just over a year ago. He is survived by his sons Pat in Newcastle, Oldcastle; Seamus in Coronagh; John in Knocktemple; daughters, Mrs. Margaret Gillick, Clouhergoole; Mrs Jean Smith, Lavey; Mrs Ann Senn and Mrs. Mary Dekauwe in London. Members of Munterconnacht GFC provided a guard of honour at his funeral.

James Sheils, Knockaughey, Corlismore
The death occurred unexpectedly of James Sheils, Knockaughey, Corlismore recently in his mid-70s. He was a popular member of the local farming community. James was a prominent figure on the Gowna team in the past as was his brother, Mal who also played on the Cavan senior team, while his son, Peter is the present Secretary of Gowan GFC. He is survived by his wife, Rose (nee Masterson from Ballytrust), son, Peter; brothers Mal, Peter and Augustine in Dublin and his sister, Mrs. Annie Sheridan, Cavan to whom deepest sympathy is extended. James was buried in Gowna cemetery. Gowna GFC provided a guard of honour at his removal, and his funeral was attended by many GAA officials and supporters from the area and surrounding districts.

Willie Gaynor, Ervey, kingscourt
There was genuine regret at the death of 82 year old Willie Gaynor at his residence in Ervey. He was a great GAA fan, and in his time cycled to football games involving Cavan in St. Tiarnach’s Park, Clones and Croke Park in Dublin. He also followed the fortunes of the local club, Kingscourt Stars down theyears, witnessing many of their championship successes in the ‘nineties. He is survived by his sons - Liam, Michael and John; daughters Mrs. Nuala Fitzsimons in Navan; Mrs Mary Boyle, Carrickmacross; Teresa Gaynor, Kilmainhamwood; Mrs. Ellen Courtney, Magheracloone; brothers and sisters.