Cavan Obituaries 2003

Niall Sheridan (Butlersbridge)
The Butlersbridge Community was saddened at the news of the death of one of its residents, Mr Niall Sheridan, a popular and jovial member of the community. Niall who passed away at the relatively young age of 52 was a painter and decorator by trade. Throughout his life, Niall had a keen interest in football and was the goalkeeper on the Butlersbridge team that won the junior ‘double’ back in 1974. He is survived by his brothers’ Tom, John, Oliver, and Brendan, sisters, Margie, Kathleen, Maura and Cora.
Mick Kavanagh (Cavan Town)
The death occurred at Cavan General Hospital of Mr Mick Kavanagh, 2 Church View following at brief illness. Aged 69, he was a native of Templemore, Co. Tipperary and came to reside in Cavan in 1961 as a member of the Irish Army who were based in the town. In his youth, Mick was a playing member of his local Templemore GAA club. He is survived by a large family circle.

Pat Brady (Church St., Killeshandra)
The Killeshandra area was saddened to learn of the death of one its favourite residents, Pat Brady, Church St. Although Pat had been in failing health for some years, he was nonetheless a hardworking man. Earlier in his life, Pat worked in Fletchers and the Forestry before emigrating to England for a period of time. He retired to Killeshandra in the sixties where he farmed in Snakiel and worked for many years in MacCormac Food Products. In his youth, Pat was a very good footballer and was a regular member of the Croghan teams of that period. Later he was an enthusiastic supporter of the re-organisation of Killeshandra Leaguers GFC and the establishment of the Packie Devlin Park. He is survived by his wife, Bernadette; daughters, Mary in Killeshandra, Bernadette in Belturbet; Ann, Arklow, Cindy in Dunboyne; sons, Paddy and Eddie, Killeshandra and Tommy in London; sister, Bernadette Quigley in Coventry; brothers, Paul, Coventry and Gerard in Dublin.

Jimmy Dalton (Loughduff, Mullahoran)
The area of Mullahoran lost one of its most famous and populars residents with the death of Jimmy Dalton, Loughduff following a brief illness. Aged 87 he was a prominent member of the GAA both at club and county level. At the time of his death he was honourary president of Cavan Co. Board GAA. A true gael, Jimmy attended his first county convention in 1937. Jimmy had the unique distinction of attending fifty seven consecutive Cavan GAA conventions and during that period served under seventeen Co. Board Chairmen. He continued to attend up until the mid nineties and was subsequently elected to the position of Honourary Vice President and later as Honourary President in 1995 on the death of Patsy Lynch, Bailieboro.
Jimmy, represented his club Mullahoran at Co. Board level from 1939 and was the club’s delegate for close on sixty years, which in itself is a unique record in Cavan GAA administrative affairs. Jimmy witnessed many great moments throughout his long serving GAA career and was involved with his club when they came to prominence in 1935 winning a senior title and once again when Mullahoran were the dominant force at county level capturing senior championship titles in 1942, 1944, 1945 and then four in a row from 1947-50. He also saw Mullahoran capture two further senior titles in 1963 and 1998. During the early forties, Jimmy was co-opted onto the Cavan selection committee and was part of the backroom team involved in the successes of the great county teams of that decade and into the fifties. He was a selector under then team manager, Hughie O’Reilly when Cavan won All Ireland senior football titles in 1947, 48 and 1952. Jimmy didn’t make the trip to New York for the 1947 final but was involved with the county team right up to early sixties when Mick Higgins was team manager.
Jimmy had a deep love and understanding of the game and summed up his approach to Gaelic football when speaking at the official opening of Our Lady of Lourdes Park in Mullahoran in 1983 when he said that while Mullahoran had an almost unbroken record in the 1940s and that while success had to be the motivation in all competitive sport he was sensible enough to realise that effort also gave fulfilment in less successful years. Jimmy is survived by his son, Jim. His remains were laid to rest at Loughduff.

Charlie Smith (Graddum, Crosserlough)
The death at Cavan General Hospital of Charlie Smith robbed the Kilnaleck area of one of its most outstanding and respected personalities. Born at Cookill, Crosserlough 87 years ago, Charlie joined the Armed Forces of the State at the commencement of the Second World War and quickly rose to the rank of Sergeant. Charlie was noted for his great organisational skills and when the Irish Government feared an invasion by the German army during the WW2 he was chosen to help instruct the then LSF (Local Security Forces) and the LDF (Local Defence Forces). When both these forces were merged into the FCA, Charlie was given the responsibility of training units in Cavan, Leitrim, Meath, Louth and Longford. After a period in the doldrums the Crosserlough GAA club was re-organised and a physical trainer was required. Charlie was called upon once again and despite being over forty years of age initiated a strict physical regime for the younger players, a regime which he himself took full part in. He is credited with giving the club ‘the edge’ in physical fitness over their opponents and thus laying the foundations for the club’s as of yet unbroken record of seven in a row (1966 to 1972). Charlie was also a gifted performer and will be remembered for his dramatic monologues. He is survived by his wife, Louise, and sons, Brian, Noel and Cathal.

Pete Martin (Glassleck)
The news of the death of Pete Martin left the residents of Killan - Shercock area in shock. Pete and his twin brother, Anthony had celebrated their 86th birthday the previous September. A highly respected member of the farming community, he had a great love for animals. Gaelic football was always close to his heart. He loved to recount the great deeds of the Breffni men and their achievements. In the early days of radio the Martin homestead was always full to capacity for the big match. So famous was the GAA banter in the Martin household the house was affectionately referred to as the "GAA’s first hospitality suite". He was also deeply involved in amateur dramatics and part of a number productions by the Sillan Community Players. Sympathy is extended to his brother, Anthony.

Hughie McCabe (Latnadrona)
One of areas best known personalties, Hughie McCabe passed away aged ninety years. Hughie along with his wife Nancy, ran a country store and travelling shop in the days when such enterprises were a vital and essential part of rural life. Despite a huge investment of time in his family and business, Hughie still was an active participant in community life. He was the first Chairman of the re-organised Crosserlough Gaelic Football club in the early fifties and held that position until the Crosserlough team were well on their way to being the dominant force in senior football in Cavan and Ulster. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; sons, Sean, Noel, Gerry, Martin, and Vincent and daughter, Catherine.

Mrs Margaret McGrath, nee Gilmurray (Carrontreemal, Belcoo)
There was widespread regret in the general area at the death of Mrs Margaret McGrath, (nee Gilmurray), Carrontreemal, Belcoo, which occurred at the Erne Hospital, Enniskillen. A devoted mother, Margaret had an active involvement with local GAA club, Belcoo O Raghallaighs for many years. She was predeceased by her youngest daughter, Martina in recent years.
She will be sadly missed by her husband, Jim; son, James, daughters, Ann and Honora; sisters, Mrs Leonard and Mrs Sharkey to whom the sympathy of the whole community is extended.

Eugene Leddy (Stroane,Butlersbridge)
The death occurred at Cavan General Hospital of Mr Eugene Leddy, Stroane, Butlersbridge at the age of 88. His death removes from the community one of the best known musicians in this area. He was renowned as a traditional music entertainer and as leader of the Eugene Leddy Ceili Band. A dairy farmer by occupation, Eugene had the distinction of being one of the first bands to broadcast their music on Radio Eireann from the GPO in the forties. While his family was widely associated with music, his daughter, Kathy Durkin is a household name as a country and western/ballad singer. Eugene’s quiet and jovial manner endeared him to everyone. Although retired from Ceili band scene, Eugene teamed up with Cavan accordion player, Martin Donohoe and bazzouki player, John Campbell in 1987 to win the Ulster GAA senior Scor title.
Eugene’s contribution to Irish life was recognised when he was honoured at a special function last May (2001) in MacSeain’s Lounge, Cornafean organised by Cornafean G.F.C. The Leddy name has also been synonymous with G.A.A. with his three sons, all active participants of the code. Both Sean (who predeceased him), and Oliver were members of the Cavan senior football teams for many seasons. He is survived by his wife, Anne; sons, T. P., Oliver and daughters, Mary, Anne, Kathy Durkin, Mrs Phyl Rehill, Trim and Mrs Vera O’Reilly, Killinkere.
As a mark of respect to Eugene there was a Guard of Honour of members of Butlersbridge GFC and a lone piper led the cortege to the local church. His remains were laid to rest in St Aidan’s cemetery, Butlersbridge.

Sean Lavin (Tullyboy, Kilnaleck)
The death occurred at St Vincent’s Hospital Dublin after a short illness of Mr Sean Lavin, Tullyboy. A quiet, unassuming and courteous gentleman, Sean was a progressive farmer throughout his working life. Sean first came to prominence as a GAA player in the red and white of the then Kilnaleck GAA club - before the reformation of Crosserlough - where he numbered among his contemporaries two of the most famous names in the GAA history, Mick Higgins and Peter Donohoe. Deepest sympathy is extended to his wife, Attracta, daughters, Una and Cora; sisters Ann, Rosaleen and Margaret. He was laid to rest in Ballinacree cemetery.

Edward Brady (Wateraughey, Corlismore)
The news of the death of Ned Brady was received with great sadness throughout the entire parish. In his eighties, Ned was a courteous and hardworking man throughout his entire life. In his younger days, Ned was a permanent member of the famous Wateraughey football team where he was acknowledged as a good footballer. He was also a great lover of Irish music and passed his love of music onto his family where there are a number of musicians. He was predeceased by his wife Anne and son Sean. Sympathy is extended to his sons, Donal, Eamon and Gerry; daughters, Mary and Anne. His remains were laid to rest in Loughduff cemetery.

Peter Smith (Deerpark, Virginia)
There was widespread regret at the news of the death of Peter Smith, Deerpark, which occurred following a short illness. A native of Lavey Peter emigrated to the USA where he worked for a number of years before returning to Ireland where he bought a pub in Crosskeys. Peter and his wife ran a successful business right up to his retirement in 1990 when they moved to Deerpark, Virginia. Peter was noted for his keen interest in sport and in particular G.A.A. where he followed the fortunes of the local and county teams with great enthusiasm. He is survived by his wife, Brigid; daughters, Mrs Patricia McGrinnell, Dublin; Mrs Margie Quealy, Virginia; sons, John, Barry and David in Drumheel and by his five sisters, (all resident in America), Kathleen, Eileen, Maureen, Bridie and Peggy. He was predeceased by his one brother, Jim. Peter was interred in the New Cemetery.

Thomas Clegg (3 Church St., Cootehill)
The death of Thomas (Tommy) Clegg took place at Cavan General Hospital on February 15, 2002. after a long illness. Tommy who was in his early seventies was an employee of the Veterinary section of the Department of Agriculture, Dublin. On his retirement over ten years ago, Tommy returned to his native Cootehill where he actively immersed himself in the life of the local community. Gaelic games were his main interest. He was a keen follower of his local club, Cootehill Celtic in all the grades and gave generously of his time in helping organise training and matches for the underage section of the club. His popularity was evident by the large turnout at his funeral where a Guard of Honour was performed by members of Cootehill Celtic G.F.C. Tommy is survived by his brother, Herbie.

John Joe McGovern (New York,
formerly Drumcash)
The area of Swanlinbar was stunned at the news of the sudden death of one its outstanding native sons with word of the sudden death of John Joe McGovern in New York. Formerly from Drumcash, John Joe who was better known as John Joe Jack was son of Maggie and the late James (Jack) McGovern. John Joe emigrated to the USA in the mid 80s where he established his own cab business called "Break for the Border". A kind and helpful man, he was deeply involved in gaelic football and was part of the local football club in his "growing up years". He was President of the Fermanagh Football Association in New York a position he undertook with great enthusiasm. His popularity was evident when a large contingent travelled from New York with his remains to his final resting place in Killaghduff cemetery. Guard of honours were formed by St Marys football club and many other football clubs. Before the conclusion of the Funeral Mass tributes were paid from the local football club and the Fermanagh Football Association in New York. As a mark of respect to his memory, a minutes silence was held before the Cavan - Fermanagh national league match in Breffni Park that Sunday. Sympathy is extended to his wife, Mary; son, Ciaran; daughter Eimear; Mother, Maggie; brother, James; uncle Joe; and aunt Mary Ann.

Jimmy Breslin (Moynehall)
James (Jimmy) Breslin, Moynehall, who died suddenly at his residence at the age of 86 was a member of a notable local business family. Jimmy was a native of Shankill, Poles and was a prominent farmer in the area. Jimmy purchased a licensed premises in Connolly Street, Cavan Town which he and his wife, May ran for a number of years. Jimmy had a keen interest in Gaelic football and was an avid supporter throughout his life, rarely missing a club or county game. He was the Honourary President of Killygarry G.F.C. Blessed with a great sense of humour he enjoyed the social occasions. He is survived by his wife, May and his brother Charlie. His remains were laid to rest in St. Brigid’s Cemetery, Killygarry.

Paddy Brady (Forthill, Arva)
The death at his residence on February 26 (2001) robbed the locality of one its most respected residents, Paddy Brady, Forthill, Arva. Paddy who was a popular member of the farming community was also a well known member of great football family.
He played with the Cormore teams in the 50s and was part of their great Junior Championship success in 1957. Paddy was a founder member of Arva Agricultural Show Society and worked for many years on the committee. He is survived by his wife Lily (nee Duignan); sons, Gerard in Sligo, Vincent in New Zealand, Tommy in Drumshinny; daughters, Dympna in England, Teresa in Dublin, Ann in England; brothers, Fr. Charlie and Fr. Vincent in Sacramento, USA, Philip in Arva, Thomas in Cavan, James in Portarlington, John Joe in Gurteen, Gerard in Dublin, Donal in Longford; sisters, Mrs Patricia McCarthy in Cavan Town, and Kathleen in Conefrey. Members of Arva G.F.C. formed a Guard of Honour and carried his coffin past the football field up to the chapel. His burial took place to Coronea cemetery.

Jimmy Smith (Drumhurt)
There was widespread regret in the area at the death of Mr Jimmy Smith, Drumhurt at his home on Saturday 2nd March 2002.
Jimmy who was aged 89 was a well respected farmer all is life. He was widely known and respected in his local area. He was a keen follower of the GAA and the local club formed a Guard of Honour as a mark of respect at the removal of his remains. He was also a life long member of the Pioneer Association. He was predeceased by his wife, Cassie, a few years ago. Jimmy is survived by his son, Seamus; sisters, Mrs Maggie Clerkin, Maudabawn; Mrs Maura O’Rourke, Dairybrae; Mrs Nancy Smith, Virginia to whom sympathy is extended.

Mr Patrick (Packie) Monaghan Institute Road, Tanderagee)
The sudden death on Friday 8th March 2002 of Patrick (Packie) Monaghan, at his residence at the age of 85 was received with great sadness throughout the entire community. Packie was the last surviving member of the Monaghan family of Curkish. Packie worked all his working life for Cavan County Council until his retirement twenty years ago. A well respected gentleman, he was a very outgoing and active man who was well known as a raconteur with a great sense of humour. One of his great passions was football. He was vice president of the Bailieborough Shamrocks G.A.A. club for over ten years and was a regular supporter wherever the club played. Pre deceased by his wife, Alice, just seven months prior to his death, Packie is survived by his sons, Sean, (Drumbaragh, Kells); Michael (Lisnalee); and Eamonn (Tanderagee).

T. P. Kirwan (The Oaks, Ballinteer, Dublin)
The passing of T. P. Kirwan of the Oaks, Ballinteer, at Tallaght General Hospital on Sunday 10th March removed one of nature’s gentlemen from this earth. T. P. who was only in his 58th year was in indifferent health for some time but was always cheerful and accepted his illness in true Christian fashion. A native of Cloone, Gowna, T. P. wore the green and red of Gowna with distinction on several occasions between 1958 and 1964. A gifted tradesman and carpenter, his skills were renowned and his work cherished. Amongst the huge gathering at his removal were members of the Gowna G.A.A. club who presented the family with the number fourteen Green and Red jersey which rested on his coffin as it was being carried into the Church. Following the concelebrated funeral Mass the large cortege of mourners accompanied the remains to the Holy Family Church, Gowna where the local football club provided a Guard of Honour.
Sympathy is extended to his wife, Belinda; daughters, Sharon, Aishling and Cara; sons, Ken and Emmet; his brother, Paddy, Lynwood, Dundrum; and sister, Mrs Lily Thompson, Carlow.

Michael McKeever (Drumhilla, Arva)
The unexpected death of Michael McKeever, Drumhilla, Arva, which occurred at his residence cast a cloak of sorrow over the locality. He was a well known and respected member of the farming community. He took a keen interest in GAA and was a regular follower of the Cormore Beagle Hunt club. In his youth he served the old Cormore G.A.A. club which at the time had some notable players like the Lynch brothers, Jack and Hughie, Peter Boylan, Ned Gormley, the Burns brothers, Fr.s Eddie and Benny, Thomas McKeever, Tommy Reilly, the two Paddy Bradys, Benny Morris, Paddy Finnegan and Pat Leddy. A Guards of Honour were provided by the Cormore Hunt club and by former members of the Cormore GAA club and his coffin was draped with the blue jersey of Cormore. Sympathy is extended to his family, sister, Mrs Annie Cox, Leicester City.

Mrs Esther Barry (Curkish, Bailieboro)
The untimely passing of Mrs Esther Barry, (nee Gerrity), Curkish, on Saturday 9th March 2002, left the entire area deeply saddened. Esther was a quiet and gentle person who was very well known and respected within the community.
She was a life-long follower of all things associated with Gaelic games and was a former member of the Bailieborough Community School Parents’ Association. She is survived by her husband, Patsy, Curkish; sons, P. J. (do); Anthony (do); Vincent (Dublin); daughters, Mrs Carol Gaffney, (Killinkere); Maris (Curkish), and Fiona (do), her brother, Bobby (Carrickmacross), and by her sister, Mrs Lily Lynch, (Crocknahattina). Esther’s remains were laid to rest in St. Anne’s Cemetery.

Mr Anthony (Tony) McCluskey
(Lakeview, Bailieborough)
The community was shocked and saddened with the news of the death of Mr Anthony (Tony) McCluskey, Lakeview, which took place at Cavan General Hospital on Friday 8th March 2002, after a short illness. Aged 59, Tony came from a highly respected and well known McCluskey family from Drumbannon. In his youth Tony was a playing member of the local Bailieboro Shamrocks G.F.C. He also was a member of the local F.C.A. unit. Tony commenced his working life at Sheriff’s Sawmills after which he went to work for a number of years on the buildings in Dublin. On his return to the area, he worked for Bells, Grain Merchants before moving to Irish Foundries until his retirement some years ago. A very talented man, Tony was well known for his great musical ability, and while the accordion and harmonica were his favourite instruments he could play a wide range of musicial instruments. He was also blessed with a great singing voice. A very caring man, he was well known for his regular visits to people who were sick. He was also a great family man. Tony’s passing has left the area of Bailieboro that much the poorer. Deepest sympathy is extended to his wife, Margaret, (Lakeview); son, Clint, (do); daughters, Ciara, (Tanderagee), Elaine, (Lakeview), and grandchild Megan. He is also survived by his brothers, Tom, (Kent), P. J. (Drumbannon), Derek (Wolverhampton), and Jackie (Drumbannon), and by his sisters, Mrs Kathleen Gunn (Drumbannon), and Mrs Frances Connolly (Swindon).
Tony’s remains were laid to rest in St. Anne’s Cemetery.

Mr John Nulty (Tierquin, Cavan)
The sudden and untimely passing of Mr John Nulty, Tierquin, one of Cavan’s best known businessmen, who died suddenly while at Sligo General Hospital left the entire county at a loss. A well-known agricultural contractor and quarry owner he attended the national football league game between Cavan and Sligo in Markievicz Park when he became ill prior to the start of the game and was dead on admission to hospital. Aged 74, he was recognised as a hard worker who achieved great success in his business and this affable man was to become one of the best known agricultural and civil contractors in these counties. John was a thorough gentleman while his wit and humour endeared him to those in his company. He was a great lover of Gaelic football and was a regular supporter at club and county games. In his youth, he was involved with a team in Dennbawn, Carrickaboy, which later amalgamated with Denn. He was recognised as a keen supporter of Denn Dan O’Connells. He is survived by his wife, Madge; sons, Sean, Thomas, Brian, Garrett, Derek and Kieran; daughters, Maura, Brid and Margy his mother, Mary; brothers, Tommy, Denn and Frank, Drumbarry; sisters, Mrs Maggie McAndrew and Mrs Pauline Sheridan both in the U.S. and Mrs Molly Tully, Kilnaleck. His remains were laid to rest in St Matthew’s cemetery, Drumvaddy.

Thomas Halton (Cavan Road, Cootehill)
The death at the age of 69 of Tommy Halton, Cavan Road, occurred at Cavan General Hospital on April 4th 2002 after a short illness. A popular and well respected member of the community, he was formerly employed by Cootehill Co-Operative Poultry Products Ltd. One of Tommy’s great passions was to watch, the local gaelic football club, Cootehill Celtic play in Hugh O’Reilly Park. He was also frequently seen angling around the local lakes of the area.

Ned McEntee (Fair Green, Arva)
The death of Mr Ned McEntee, Fair Green, which occurred at Cavan General Hospital following a short illness has robbed the area of one of its best known residents. A native of Ballybay, Co. Monaghan, Ned came to Arva along with Patrick McKeon to open the quarry in Coronea in 1948 and which was later sold to Roadstone. His main pastime was the G.A.A. and he was involved with the Cormore club for a number of years but when moves were made to reform the Arva club in 1962 he gave it his full support. Ned is credited with proposing the name of the new football field in Arva - which were opened in 1972 - when he suggested the name of his old friend the late Michael Cully who passed away in 1969. An avid follower of the GAA he travelled the length and breath of the country to football matches. Ned was not slow to answer the cause of trying to raise funds for the new football field and became an active member of Arva Players variety troupe, and gave many a rousing performance. He also did many good deeds in his life which were never known and his work with Alcoholic Anonymous was of great importance to him. Members of Arva football club formed a Guard of Honour at his remains as they approached the church. He is survived by wife, Philomena; sons, Eamonn, Padraig, Dermot and Leo; daughters, Evelyn and Phyllis to whom sympathy is extended.

Patrick Fox (Drumgoon)
The entire community and Drumgoon G.F.C. were deeply shocked at the sudden death of Patrick Fox, jnr. Paddy as he was affectionately known was one of the great characters in the community and was well known for his great wit and fun. The deceased played at all levels for Drumgoon G.F.C. and won his first county medal at U-14 in 1986. Drumgoon G.F.C. provided an impressive Guard of Honour from the Church to the cemetery and a tribute was paid at the graveside. He is survived by his parents, Patrick and Mary; also his sisters, Breege and Margaret; brothers, Seamus, Hugh and Sean.

Brian Boyle (Latully)
The Drumgoon community were furthered shocked and saddened to learn of the untimely tragic death of Brian Boyle, Latully. Brian was a quiet gentleman and was warmly liked by his many friends. From his schooldays, at Dernakesh, Brian showed great promise as footballer. An accomplished footballer, he played at all underage levels for Drumgoon GFC where he proved to be a popular young man with all involved in the club. A very serious back injury cut short his football career. Brian developed a love for motorbikes. Brian schools friends and former playing colleagues of Drumgoon GFC formed a Guard of Honour at the removal of his remains to Maudabawn Chapel. He is survived by his parents, Sean and Cora; sisters, Fiona and Regina and also by his brothers, Patrick and Kevin.

Mrs Margaret Lynch (Drumina, Virginia)
Great sadness was evoked at the news of the death of Mrs Margaret Lynch, Drumina, which occurred following a short illness in Cavan General Hospital. In her early seventies, she was formerly a McEnroe from Greaghlough, Mullagh. A well respected lady, both she and her husband were great supporters of all things local. At her remains a Guard of Honour was mounted by members of the Lurgan and Virginia Pioneer Centres and also by the Lurgan Underage Gaelic Football teams. Margaret is survived by her husband, Lorcan; sons, John Pat, Coppenagh, Laurence, Drumina, Peter, Ballyjamesduff, Phil, Lr. Lavey; daughters: Mrs Clare Carolan, Lavey, Mrs Mary Brady, Lavey; Mrs Theresa Tierney, Bailieboro; sisters: Mrs Bridget Bough, Lisduff, Maghera; Mrs Anna Galligan, Killygarry, Cavan; brother, Paddy McEnroe, Greaghlough, Mullagh.

Sean Farrelly (U.S and Potahee)
There was sadness in the locality at the news of the unexpected death at an early age following an accident at his home in the United States of Mr Sean Farrelly. A native of Potahee, Ballinagh he was son of the late Sean and Rose Anne Farrelly. His was a member of one of Cavan’s best known and respected families in both business and sporting circles. His late father, Sean, played left corner forward on the first ever Cavan team to play in an All Ireland senior football final in 1928 against Kildare. His brother, Seamus, was a prominent player on the Cavan minor team that played Galway in the All Ireland minor final in 1952. Sean is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, (formerly Mulligan from Lacken, Ballinagh); brothers, Seamus, Padraig, Frank, Ted and sisters, Brid, Eileen, Rose and Mary.

Miss Dodie Gaffney (Cashel, Ballinagh)
The death at Cavan General Hospital following a short illness of Miss Dodie Gaffney, Cashel, Ballinagh caused widespread sadness throughout the entire community. A well respected member of the community she was widely known and recognised as a good and kind neighbour. A famed camogie player, Dodie played in goals for the Ballinagh club and the Cavan county team for a number of years where her top class performances ‘between the posts’ paved the way for many memorable victories. Predeceased by her brothers, Michael and Seamus, she is survived by her brother, Sean; sisters: Kathleen and Bridget.

Tommy Fay (Church St., Cootehill)
The sudden death of Tommy Fay, Church Street, Cootehill, occurred on the 15th April 2002 and left the Cootehill area in a state of sadness and shock. Tommy who was in his mid sixties, worked for Cavan Co. Council for nearly thirty years. Deeply involved with his family and community, his other great passion was gaelic football. He was a noted footballer, he starred on the 1957 team that were narrowly defeated in the senior football championship final. However, he was back again in 1960 as part of the Cootehill Celtic team who won the Junior championship final. At the end of a distinguished career on the playing fields he continued on as an active mentor and administrator for many years and to the very end Tommy loved to watch underage games and spot emerging talent. Cootehill Celtic GFC and fellow workers formed a Guard of Honour at his removal. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen; son, Thomas and daughter, Sharon; and his brother, John.

Bridie Conaty (Killygarry, Cavan)
The death on Friday 19 April 2002 at the Sheelin Nursing Home, Mountnugent of Bridie Conaty at the age of 86 brought to an end a chapter in the annals of Cavan sport. A native of Stragella, Cavan, Bridie was predeceased by her husband, Paul, son Padraic and son-in-law Niall Kenny. After the death of her husband, Bridie reared a young family and developed and maintained a high quality dairy farm. She was recognised as a talented seamstress and Aran knitter. In her youth, Bridie was captain of Killygarry camogie team that won the County championship for ten successive years in the 1930s and 40s. She was also a member of the Cavan county team that won the Ulster senior championship in 1940 and 1941. When her playing days were over, she along with her team-mate Mollie O’Brien (nee Donohoe) played a major part in reviving camogie in Cavan. She was elected chairman of the Cavan County Camogie Board in 1967. Members of Killygarry GFC formed a Guard of Honour at her funeral. She is survived by sons, Jackie, Peadar and Enda; daughters, Noreen, Marie, Pauline and Eileen; sister, Nancy (Castletara), brother in law Paddy (Gateshead).

Jim Moynagh (Bawn, Shercock)
The death following a long illness of Jim Moynagh, Bawn, was received throughout the entire area with deep sadness. Jim who was in his eighties worked on the Tennison Estate during his employment. He was a talented handballer and footballer, one of the last footballers of the Erin Og era. He and his family before him were sextons of St. Patrick’s Church, Bawn for many years. Sincere sympathy is extended to his wife, Bridie, daughter, Mary, sons, Michael and Jim; brothers, Packie, Dundalk and sisters, Sally and Tessie in Dublin.

Mr Jack Yorke (Lisdua, Drumgoon)
One of Drumgoons most loved characters passed away with the death of Jack Yorke, Lisdua. Renowned as great worker, Jack’s services were sought near and far. Jack who had been in failing health for the last few years was gently nursed by Helen and Sean Murray from Lisdua. He had a great love of Gaelic football and was an acknowledged expert on the subject. Jack’s heroes included James McCartan and Hughie O’Reilly. He was a great Drumgoon supporter of both boys and girls teams. He delighted in seeing his grand nieces. Lisa and Sinead and Michelle play with Drumgoon. He was vice president of the club and club members formed a Guard of Honour at his removal to Maudabawn Church. Jack is survived by nephews Michael Crossan, Donegal; Thomas, England; Donal, Meath; and nieces, Mary, England; Ann, Cootehill and Helen in Lisdua.

Liam Carolan ( Greagahgibney, Grousehall, Bailieboro)
The death occurred at his residence after a long illness of Mr Liam Carolan, Greagagibney, Grousehall, Bailieboro. He was just short of his 58th birthday by a matter of days and was a well-known and much respected resident in the area. Liam was employed as Farm Affairs Manager in Bailieboro Foods (now Lakeland Dairies) for many years until he became ill. He was deeply involved in the local community and was a member of many local organisations including Clifferna Gun Club, the PTAA, Laragh Boy S