Louth Obituaries 2006

Brendan Breathnach (Knockbridge)
The late Brendan Breathnach, who passed away to his eternal reward in November 2005, gave a lifetime of service to the GAA in his locality and at county level. He served the County Board as Registrar for 32 years, 1960-92. The Knockbridge man was also a former chairman of the Board and acted as treasurer of St Brides for over 50 years. Brendan had an illustrious legal career, acting as a solicitor for 44 years and was heavily involved in every aspect of life in his community. In keeping with his role as an active gael, Brendan loved every facet of Irish culture. Brendan Breathnach’s contribution to Knockbridge and Wee County GAA was priceless and must never be forgotten.

Jim Beirne (Ardee)
Jim Beirne was a keen sports enthusiast who followed a number of sports and cheered on his local Sean McDermotts club all his life. The town of Ardee and the entire local community was stunned in early December 2005 when Jim and his partner Catherine Shiels (who shared his passion for sport) were tragically killed when a car struck them on their way home from a night out. Representatives of Sean McDermotts GFC and Ardee Rugby Club provided Guards of Honour at the funeral.

Jim Thornton (Cooley)
Wee County GAA legend Jim Thornton passed away in Carlingford Nursing Home on Wednesday December 7 2005, aged 89. Jimmy will be remembered as one of the outstanding midfielders of his generation, winning major honours with Cooley Kickhams, Louth and Leinster. He could play in any position and had the distinction of never leaving the field injured – this in an era when the game was very physical and men were men. Jim made his senior debuts with Cooley and Louth in 1936 and was a regular midfielder for the Wee County from 1938 until 1944, during which time he had seventeen different midfield partners! He collected his only SFC with Cooley in 1939 and helped Louth to Leinster senior glory four years later. Louth hammered Laois in the provincial final and Jimmy Thornton gave a typically outstanding display. In 1944, the Cooley colossus became the first Louth man to captain his province to Railway Cup glory, partnering Meath’s Mattie Gilsenan at centrefield on the all-conquering Leinster side. He went on to serve his club as both chairman and senior selector and was an automatic choice at midfield on the Louth Team of the Millennium. Jim resided in Willville all his life, but both he and his wife Margaret had moved into Carlingford Nursing Home due to ailing health. The Cooley man provided much joy to generations of Louth GAA followers and it is sadly true that we will never witness his likes again. But he has left behind a legacy and memories that we can treasure forever.

Sean Cunningham (Dundalk)
The New Year got off to a sad start with news of the sudden death of Louth’s 1957 All-Ireland final goalscoring hero Sean Cunningham. Sean booked his place in Wee County GAA folklore when he fisted the ball to the back of the Cork net in the 55th minute of the national decider in front of nearly 73,000 supporters at Croke Park on September 22 1957. The goal was the decisive score in Louth’s historic 1-9 to 1-7 victory. The personal success story was quite a remarkable one as Sean played only four times for his county at senior level and collected both Leinster and All-Ireland medals! He also played for Leinster. Sean emigrated to America the following year and, sadly, passed away on New Year’s Eve 2005 after suddenly taking ill on Christmas Eve. A former Young Ireland clubman, Sean was the third-youngest member of the great 1957 team. He had just turned 24 in September 1957. The man whose touch gave Louth the victory we’ve all been talking about for almost half a century was buried near his home in Santa Monica, Los Angeles. A special memorial mass took place in St Joseph’s Church, Dundalk on the same day, with the altar adorned in the black and yellow of Young Irelands as well as the red and white of Louth. All but two surviving members of the 1957 All-Ireland team attended.

Kitty McQuillan (Annagassan)
The Naomh Fionnbarra club was dealt a harsh blow in December 2005 with the passing of Kitty McQuillan, who was a keen supporter of the club down through the years. Kitty always encouraged the participation of her husband and sons in club affairs as the McQuillan name became synonymous with the Finbarrs. Kitty was married to former secretary and current treasurer Thomas McQuillan and her son Darren collected a county intermediate championship medal in the Green & Gold in 2001.
- Naomh Fionnbarra GFC

Jim Holmes (Bellurgan)
The late Jim Holmes was an active member of the local communities in Lordship and Bellurgan. After working for the County Council and in O’Hares Mill, he served as caretaker at Bellurgan and Ramparts National Schools, making many friends. A prominent church-goer, Jim was also involved in the local youth club. He will be remembered as a selfless man, who cared about others greatly. In his young days, Jim lined out for St Patricks and won a JFC medal in 1960.

Joe Kirk (Kilkerley)
Joe Kirk, who passed away in his 85th year, was a passionate GAA man throughout his life. On the field, Joe made his name as a sterling full back with Fane Rangers and he went on to serve Kilkerley Emmets in a variety of capacities, including selector and club president. An Honorary Club President, he was always very active in community work. School pupils and young members of Kilkerley Emmets provided a Guard of Honour at Joe’s funeral.

Gerry Campbell (Dundalk)
The New Year festivities were muted by news of the death of popular townsman Gerry Campbell from MacSwiney Street at Louth County Hospital on Saturday December 31 2005. Renowned for his skill in fixing clocks and watches, Gerry lined out for Roche Emmets in his early days and was a keen GAA follower throughout his 75 years.

Raymond Cooney (Drogheda)
Raymond ‘Ray’ Cooney was a well-loved Drogheda man who had a great love for sport, including gaelic football. He passed away at Our Lady’s of Lourdes Hospital on December 18 2005 following a short illness. Ray won minor medals with O’Raghallaighs in 1959 and 1960 but his playing career was cut short when he moved to London in the ‘60s.

Patsy McEneaney (Dundalk)
Naomh Moninne will greatly miss the contribution they had over the years from the late Patsy McEneaney, who was a prime driving force behind the Dundalk hurling club. Patsy passed away in the Louth County Hospital at the age of 56. During his all-too-short time amongst us, he had a long and healthy association with the sporting and social community in Fatima, where he was very active in the Moninne hurling club for many years. Patsy played for the club and held a lifelong affiliation to the black & amber. He also had a passionate interest in a number of other sports.

Tom McGuinness (Dromiskin)
Tom McGuinness from Rath-Ban, Dromiskin and formerly of Blackrock passed away on Thursday January 19 2006, aged 75. One of his great interests in life was the GAA and Tom lined out for Carlingford GFC as well as representing Louth in the 1950s before moving to Manchester.

George Clinton (Dundalk)
George Clinton of Hill View, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk passed away at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital following a short illness, aged 72. George was originally from Heynestown Bridge and was a lifelong supporter of the Geraldines.

Bernard ‘Barney’ McDonnell (Louth)
Bernard was in his 90th year when he passed away peacefully early in 2006 at St Oliver Plunkett Hospital. From Castlering, Barney followed the GAA all his life and was a genuine supporter of the local St Mochtas club.

George Martin (Reaghstown)
George Martin passed away peacefully at his Reaghstown, Ardee residence on Friday January 13 2006, aged 92. George had a great interest in local community matters and was a loyal supporter of the GAA, especially Westerns and Louth teams.

Larry Durnin (Dundalk)
Larry Durnin from Fr Murray Park, who passed away at his residence aged 83, will be remembered as an extremely gifted footballer, regardless of code. He played soccer for Newry Town and also lined out for numerous local GAA sides. He travelled throughout the country to support Louth football teams over the years.

James Kneel (Kilkerley)
James Kneel from Tankards Rock, Kilkerley, Dundalk had a strong association with the local GAA all his life. James, who was born in Station Road, Castlebellingham and passed away in Louth County Hospital aged 74, played for Dromiskin Volunteers in his youth and went on to serve Kilkerley Emmets in a variety of capacities including club president. Kilkerley Emmets provided a Guard of Honour at his funeral.

Willie Long (Riverstown)
Willie passed away peacefully at his home in Rathcor, aged 83. He will be remembered as a spiritual man, who was a gold pin pioneer, Willie supported the GAA, in particular his local Cooley Kickhams club.

Rory Finnegan (Carlingford)
The entire local community was saddened and shocked by the untimely death at his home in Grange on Sunday February 12 2006 of Rory Finnegan at the age of just 46. Shockwaves resounded throughout north Louth at the passing of a great sportsman, who excelled in both gaelic football and soccer. Rory’s great talents graced many clubs over the years, among them being Sean O’Mahonys and St Patricks as well as Rangers, Bellurgan United and Darver. Rory lived for football and was highly respected in soccer and GAA circles. Representatives of the St Patricks club formed a Guard of Honour at his funeral.

John Wehrly (Ravensdale)
The death of 66-year-old taxi driver and well-known referee John Wehrly in a road traffic accident in the early hours of Tuesday morning March 7 2006 caused widespread shock in the Ravensdale area. The deceased had a great love for sport, in particular horse racing and gaelic football. He lined out for both St Patricks and Young Irelands and collected an Armagh junior championship medal with Dromintee in 1966 before a serious knee injury terminated his playing career. John then took to refereeing and enjoyed a distinguished career as the man in the middle. He chaired the Louth Referees Committee and took charge of the 1981 SFC final between Cooley Kickhams and Newtown Blues. Of German ancestry, John also had the distinction of officiating over a number of intercounty matches and refereed an U14 game at Croke Park. Poignantly, John, who used to run a filling station on the Newry Road, saw the Louth seniors in action the weekend before his tragic death.

Michael Conlon (Dundalk)
Michael Conlon of 8 Castle Road passed away on February 21 2006, aged 88. He was a keen footballer and table-tennis player in his early days and joined the local Dowdallshill GFC. He enjoyed a good playing career with the ‘Hill and went on to serve his beloved club in a variety of committee level capacities, including treasurer and trustee.

Syl Rogers (Dundalk)
Syl, who died suddenly on Thursday March 2 2006, aged 68, will be affectionately remembered as a man who did unbelievable work in the area for underprivileged people. A truly great Samaritan, Michael Sylvester Rogers, as he was born, hailed originally from the Kilkerley area and had a distinguished playing career with Kilkerley Emmets, captaining the U16s in 1952. He went on to line out for great rivals Roche Emmets also and was full back on the side beaten by Newtown Blues in the 1963 county SFC final. Even after he had retired from playing, Syl kept a keen interest in gaelic football.

John White (Riverstown)
John White passed away at his home in Ballinamara, Riverstown, Dundalk aged 80. He was a well-known local farmer who played a key role in the community. He loved Cooley and the peninsula and was a devoted fan of the parish gaelic football team, Cooley Kickhams.

Paddy Everitt (Drogheda)
The late Paddy Everitt of 14 Carmelite Cottages had a vast love and knowledge of a variety of sports including football, pitch n putt, and rings. He was also a fisherman, net maker, boat builder and a keen animal lover. Paddy played in goals for the now defunct Parnells club in Drogheda.
Owen McConnon (Ravensdale)
It was amid much sadness that word spread of the death of Owen McConnon, Blackgate, Ravensdale and late of Stonetrough, Knockbridge at Louth County Hospital. Owen was associated with St Patricks GFC and the Lordship club provided a Guard of Honour at his funeral.

Gerry Lennon (Dowdallshill)
The sudden passing of Gerry Lennon at St Conleth’s Park in Newbridge on Sunday April 16 cast a dark shadow over Louth’s National Football League Division Two semi-final victory over Limerick at the Newbridge venue. That the Wee County won the match and went on to claim the national title was a fitting tribute to the Dowdallshill clubman and ardent Louth supporter. Gerry had travelled to the match with his neighbour Gerry Kerley and the 62-year-old former goalkeeper was called to his eternal reward. Gerry had played in goals on the 1970 JFC winning team and also wore the goalkeeper’s jersey for Louth at junior level. He will be remembered as a passionate supporter of both Dowdallshill and Louth GAA, as well as a generous and friendly man.

William ‘Liam’ Moore (Dundalk)
William ‘Liam’ Moore from Marian Park, who passed away at St Oliver Plunkett Hospital, aged 79, played an active role in the promotion of boxing in Dundalk. An amateur boxer and latterly a trainer, he had a keen interest in a host of sports and boasted a lifelong association with Clan na Gael.

James Kelledy (Castlebellingham)
Staunch gael James Kelledy from Station Road was 65 when he passed away suddenly in early April 2006. He lived with his wife Mary in Darver for seven years after getting married and served St Josephs as secretary for a year. On moving to Castlebellingham he became a keen O’Connells clubman and was a selector when the Macardle Cup was annexed in 1992.

Paddy Dixon (Dundalk)
Paddy Dixon was an ardent Clan na Gael clubman all his life, up until his sudden passing on Saturday May 13 2006 at the age of 76. The son of Clans founding member John Dixon (one of five men who formed the club in 1916), Paddy acted as club treasurer for 15 years up until 2004 and held the title of honorary president. The club was Paddy’s life and his passing leaves a huge void in the Castletown area that can never be filled. He played for the Clans with distinction for 22 years and went on to train teams before becoming a key administrator. He will be remembered as one of the finest clubmen ever known anywhere in the Wee County. Winner of a Louth SFC medal with the Clans in 1959, he also played for the Wee County seniors shortly before the 1957 All-Ireland win as well as collecting an All-Ireland junior souvenir with the county in 1961. Paddy netted the winning goal against Parnells from Drogheda in the replayed 1947 Macardle Cup decider and won a second Macardle Cup medal at Geraldines’ expense six years later. He debuted for the county seniors in the national league against Dublin at the Athletic Grounds in October 1952. Paddy played on the forty in ’59 as Clans beat St Marys after a replay to win the Joe Ward. By then, his career in administration had already begun as he also became assistant secretary of the club that same year. He went on to serve as senior selector, was chairman on seven occasions and twice elected Clubman of the Year (1977 and ’85). Paddy was minor selector in the club for more than 20 years and served as Minor Board chairman from 1988 until 1999.

Sean Keenan (Riverstown)
The late Sean Keenan of Aghameen, Riverstown, Dundalk came from a strong farming background and farmed livestock for most of his 76 years. Gaelic football was one of his great passions and he had a lifelong association with St Patricks GFC. He served the Pats as a trainer and selector and was also instrumental in establishing their ladies football team.

Joe Mulvihill (Blackrock)
Joe Mulvihill of Seabeach House, Blackrock was a popular and well-known figure in the mid-Louth and Dundalk area. He was synonymous with Geraldines GFC and was a real driving force behind the local GAA club. He played for the Gers and also served them in just about every capacity at committee level. Joe was club chairman when Geraldines scooped the county senior football championship in 1981 and he also had the distinction of representing Louth at senior level.

John Caffrey (Drogheda)
John Caffrey, who passed away in May 2006, was a valued member of the Louth GAA Supporters Club since its inception in the early 1990s. His unique style, his ability to get straight to the point, his attention to detail, his honesty and integrity allied to his genial personality made him a popular figure on the Louth GAA Supporters Club committee. John’s genuine feeling for GAA activities was clearly visible in all ventures, functions and events undertaken by the Louth GAA Supporters Club over the years. Seldom bested in a debate due to his deep and thorough knowledge of the games, John got his point across quite clearly. Few supporters at the County Grounds in Drogheda dared to walk by him on match days without purchasing “a half-time draw ticket”, such were his persuasive skills. John catered for the Drogheda and South Louth supporters by ensuring their transport needs were always well looked after and his ability and popularity were borne by the huge turn-out of county players, county officers, supporters and members of St. Nicholas G.F.C all of whom formed a Guard of Honour at the removal of his remains. ‘Killeer’ was a founder member of the Nicks and was an energetic driving force behind the club catering for the Ballsgrove, Rathmullen, St Finian’s Park catchment area. He served the club as a competent and meticulous groundsman up until his death. Never afraid to challenge authority, he was at his best praising good performances or seeking reasons why teams did not live up to their potential on the day. His opinions were genuine and his criticisms were constructive as they came from a passion-filled heart. His many friends on the Louth GAA Supporters Club committee recognised his worth when they presented him with an award he treasured at their Annual Presentation Function in 2004. The Louth GAA Supporters Club will miss John’s humour and dedication but his wife Patsy, his sons, daughters, grandchildren and extended family members will never fill the deep void left in their lives by his untimely passing.

Thomas Smyth (Dundalk)
Formerly of Dulargy Avenue in Dundalk, Thomas Smyth from Bridge Street, Newry, passed away on June 11 2006, aged 57. He had a great love for a wide range of sports, including gaelic football and played for the Gaels as a young man.

Dan McEvoy (Drogheda)
The late Dan McEvoy of Moran’s Terrace was born on March 23 1915 and passed away in the summer of 2006. He inherited a great love of gaelic football and hurling from his father Dan. Dan Senior played with the famous Tredagh club and won an All-Ireland medal with Louth in 1912. Father and son travelled the length and breadth of the country supporting the Wee County for many years.

Paddy Gavin (Drogheda)
Former Louth footballer Paddy Gavin passed away on Sunday April 9 2006 following an illness. Paddy was born in Sunnyside Cottages, The Mount in June 1929 and began his football career with the Naomh Mhuire U17s in 1946, winning a Drogheda league medal that year. He also starred on the Wolfe Tones side that captured the Louth minor football championship in 1947, beating Ardee St Marys in the county final. He marked the great Paddy Markey in that match and fared so well that he was drafted onto the Louth senior team. Paddy’s debut was against Kildare in the National Football League at Newbridge and he helped himself to 1-6. But that was his last match as the Drogheda man was quickly identified as a special talent and was snapped up by Dundalk FC, whom he captained for many years. He won an FAI Cup medal in 1952, marked Tom Finney in a League of Ireland V English Football League fixture and was signed by Peter Doherty to play for Doncaster Rovers.

Sean Daly (Tallanstown)
Sean Daly, who passed away in May, was a former player and serving committee member with Glyde Rangers GFC over a number of years. Though he spent many years in England, Sean returned home and gave his club excellent service both on and off the pitch. The father of current player John, Sean is survived by his wife Anne and family.
- Glyde Rangers GFC

Michael Mackin (Louth)
With the sad passing of Michael Mackin of Mills of Louth, the Glyde Rangers club has to bid fond farewell to an excellent lifelong supporter who followed the club throughout his life. The club will always be grateful of the tremendous support Michael displayed over the years.

William ‘Willie’ Hayes (Dundalk)
William from 100 O’Hanlon Park had a keen interest in many sports and regularly travelled to Croke Park to cheer on the Wee County. He was a very popular local man and will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Rebecca Woods (Tinure)
All of Louth was stunned and heartbroken by the tragic sudden death of popular 12-year-old Tinure girl Rebecca Woods. Rebecca passed away while performing alongside other children from the Dunleer area on stage at Our Lady’s College, Greenhills on Friday June 30 2006. She was an exceptional student with a passion for singing, dancing and gaelic football. She played for the Naomh Mairtin U12s. Rebecca had just finished national school and had made her confirmation only three months earlier. Rebecca’s passing plunged the entire local community into a sense of deep grief.

Jack Treanor (Kilcurry)
The late Jack Treanor from Ballinfull, Kilcurry was a founder member of Roche Emmets GFC and an outstanding clubman all his life. Very much Mr Roche Emmets, Jack lined out for St Brides in his youth (winning a senior championship in ’43) but then helped establish the Roche Emmets club, whom he went on to represent in a variety of capacities, including player. He was a club selector for over 40 years and won junior and senior championship honours with the Emmets in 1957 and ’58 respectively. He also served the county team as a selector. Jack Treanor made a priceless contribution to gaelic games in the local community; his long legacy will live forever. Jack’s family supplied the club with its playing field and it was appropriate that his coffin was draped in the blue and white as he made his final journey on this earth.

Patsy Mulroy (Dunleer)
Louth GAA was in mourning in early July following the passing of Patsy Mulroy, who was Honorary President of Lannleire GFC and a wonderful Wee County gael. Patsy, from Shamrock Hill, was in his 80th year when he departed this world on Wednesday July 5 at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. The Lannleire clubman held a deep passion for gaelic games all his life and was a great servant to the GAA at both club and county levels. After playing for nearby clubs St Kevins and Hunterstown Rovers, Patsy was instrumental in establishing Lannleire GFC in the early 1950s. Once his playing career ended, he served the Dunleer club in a variety of committee capacities including secretary, PRO and groundsman, and he was also a former Vice Chairman of Louth County Board. He actually held this position in 1957. One of the proudest days in his life was when Lannleire opened their new grounds, Pairc Ui Mhuire, close to his home. He was a member of the field committee thereafter and spent a great many years tending to the pitch and associated facilities. Patsy took a great interest in the history of the GAA in Dunleer and Louth and his expertise in these matters was reflected in his involvement as co-ordinator of Louth GAA History Book that was compiled in Centenary Year. A kind and helpful man, he was always of great help to the media and to everyone else who visited Dunleer or needed assistance in any way. Over the years, Patsy helped greatly as a contributor towards the Louth GAA Yearbook. Above all else, Patsy Mulroy was a dedicated family man and a wonderful human being. Though the loss to Louth GAA is acute, it is his family and friends who will miss him most. Prominent County Board officials past and present, led by county chairman Paddy Oliver, paid their respects at Patsy’s removal to St Brigid’s Church, Dunleer. After the funeral mass, former Louth manager Paddy Clarke read a fitting tribute to the Lannleire stalwart. Fitting, Patsy made his final journey with his coffin draped in the blue and white of his beloved Lannleire.

John McArdle (Ravensdale)
The entire local community was shocked and saddened by the sudden death at the young age of 53 of John McArdle from Brohatna, Ravensdale in Leixlip on June 28. The highly-regarded computer programmer was a devoted family man and also had a keen interest in gaelic games. He trained juvenile teams and was a member of Ravensdale sports field committee.

John Muldoon (Dundalk)
The late John Muldoon from Muirhevna was a larger-than-life character known first and foremost for his love of soccer and Dundalk FC, but he also maintained a keen interest in gaelic games during his 67 years and regularly attended GAA matches, especially when Louth were on the bill.

Thomas McCarragher (Greenore)
The close-knit peninsula community was saddened greatly by the sudden passing of Thomas McCarragher from Ballagan, Greenore on July 5. Thomas was known widely as a kind and generous man with a keen interest in sport. He followed the local Cooley Kickhams club and was proud that four of his sons represented the McEvoy Park outfit with distinction.

Brendan Lynch (Hackballscross)
The local farming community and residents in general were saddened to hear of the death at the age of 61 of Brendan Lynch of Cavananore, Hackballscross, Dundalk. Brendan was a quiet man and his two passions in life were sport and farming. Members of Naomh Malachi provided a Guard of Honour at his removal.

Jason Conlon (Dundalk)
The town of Dundalk fell into a state of shock on June 25 with news of the premature passing at the young age of 35 of Jason (JR) Conlon from Millwood Villas and formerly of Garrybawn. Though born in London and reared in Dublin, Jason moved to the Wee County when he took up employment at the Irish Springs Co-op on the Ardee Road. His happy demeanour and outgoing personality soon endeared him to everybody in the border town and Jason played football with the local Na Piarsaigh club, winning a championship medal with the Rock Road outfit. Na Piarsaigh provided a Guard of Honour at their former player’s removal.

Anthony Gorham (Dromiskin)
The village of Dromiskin was plunged into sadness on July 10 as news began to spread of the death of 87-year-old Anthony (Tony) Gorham of Green Road, Commons. Originally from Dundalk, Tony spent all his married life – 59 years – in the village and was an enthusiastic supporter of a variety of sports, including soccer, horseracing and gaelic football. He supported the local St Josephs club, who provided a Guard of Honour at Tony’s removal. It was fitting that the Joes went on to win the Joe Ward Cup later in the year.

Sean Kennedy (Reaghstown)
The entire Reaghstown area was plunged into sadness by the sudden, untimely death of Sean Kennedy in July 2006. Sean was an avid Westerns supporter and served as a committee member for a number of years. He will be fondly remembered for his role in organising the annual charity football match on St Stephen’s Day.
- Westerns GFC

Eddie Boyle (Riverstown)
The Cooley area lost one of its links with the past when Eddie Boyle from Rathcor, Riverstown passed away in the Mater Hospital on July 22, aged 68.A former sacristan in his local Grange church, Eddie was a member of Cooley Kickhams GFC. He served the club at committee level and supported them all his life. A model family man, his gentle presence will be missed in and around the peninsula.

Christie Mulligan (Dundalk)
Christie Mulligan of St Clement’s Park, Dundalk was a native of Castlebellingham and played for O’Connells GFC in his youth. He had a keen interest in a wide array of outdoor activities, including sport, during his 74 years.

Therese Gosling (Dundalk)
The town was saddened to learn of the death of Therese Gosling (nee Ward) from Mill Street on August 2 2006. Aged 80, Therese was a member of a well-known Dundalk family and she played camogie with great distinction for Dundalk Young Irelands as a young woman. She maintained an avid interest in sport – and especially gaelic games – throughout her life.

Frank Shields (Carlingford)
Frank Shields from South Commons, Carlingford spent much of his 80 years on earth as a lorry driver and a farmer. He was an enthusiastic football follower with a deep love for the local Cooley Kickhams club.

Pat Lawless (Dundalk)
Dundalk Gaels GFC lost one of its most faithful servants with the passing of Pat Lawless from Avenue Road. Pat was from a family synonymous with all aspects of Irish culture, including sport, language, dancing, music and drama. He participated in a broad range of Irish cultural and sporting activities throughout his active and extremely busy life. Pat maintained the Lawless family’s long tradition with the Gaels, serving the local club loyally in every capacity as an astute and sincere officer. Over the years, he supported the club through thick and thin, taking great joy in their 2004 Leinster intermediate club final victory. Pat’s father Willie actually founded the Ramparts club and coached the Louth team that faced Mayo in the 1950 All-Ireland final (Willie lined out for both Louth and Leinster). Unsurprisingly, Pat made it his business to never miss an All-Ireland final.

Eamonn McLoughlin (Drogheda)
The late Eamonn McLoughlin was known throughout Drogheda and further afield as a true gentleman. Affectionately known to some as either Ned or Almonzo, the Dooley Gate native had a great interest in both sport and politics. He played in goals in both soccer and gaelic football. He was a steadying influence with the Wolfe Tones club, both on and off the field. He was also a keen Drogheda United supporter.

Patrick Kearney (Kilsaran)
Patrick ‘Paddy’ Kearney of Mayne, Milestown, Kilsaran passed away suddenly at Louth County Hospital, aged 81. His death caused sadness and shock in the GAA community and in the area in general, as Paddy was simply part of the fabric in and around Castlebellingham. He played football for the O’Connells in his younger years and remained an ardent fan for the rest of his life.

Paddy Kelly (Dunleer)
There was much sadness in the Lannleire club when the death of Paddy Kelly occurred in early October. Paddy had been ill for some time but his death still came as a shock to all in the Grangebellew/Dunleer area, where he was held in very high esteem by all gaels. Paddy was a lifelong supporter of gaelic football in County Louth, having played on a successful Walshestown team in the 1950s. Paddy moved to England in the mid-‘50s, where he became involved with the GAA club in Cheltenham. He was acting as masseur to his team-mates and he soon had a reputation as a top-class masseur. On his return to Ireland in the ‘70s, he began his lifelong involvement with the Louth senior squad. Paddy acted as masseur under several county team managers, all of whom had the greatest respect for his skill. When Paddy finally retired from this demanding job, he had worked with county teams for over 20 years. Paddy also gave his services to Lannleire on many occasions and was a great supporter of the club. His involvement was always for the love of the game and he was always very generous in offering his services free of charge. Paddy’s untimely death is a great loss to the game in the county and he will be sadly missed by all, especially the many players who benefited from his exceptional skill down through the years.
- Lannleire GFC

Kenneth Clifford (Dundalk)
The late Kenneth Clifford from Oakland Park was an avid follower of soccer and gaelic games. A member of a highly-regarded local family, he enjoyed being in the company of friends and attending sporting events. It was poignant that he passed away on Monday October 7 en route to Nicosia where his beloved Republic of Ireland were about to face Cyprus in a European Championship qualifier.

Joseph Harvey (Dundalk)
Joseph ‘Joe’ Harvey from Rosemount, Stapleton Place will be sorely missed in both the business and sporting communities of Dundalk. Joe was a well-known figure in the town, where he ran a successful drapery business and also held a variety of sporting interests. His involvement in sport dates back to his formative years and Joe joined the local Gaels GFC club as a young man. He was good enough to attract the attention of the intercounty minor selectors and featured on the Louth minor side that faced Carlow in the 1957 Leinster MFC. He went on to become a stalwart on the Gaels senior team for many years and continued to support the club avidly after hanging up his boots, as a loyal clubman and enthusiastic fundraiser. Joe’s son Martin followed in his footsteps as an exceptional long-serving player with the Ramparts club, winning an IFC in 1992 and competing in a Joe Ward decider.

Michael Morgan (Dromiskin)
The community of Dromiskin was plunged into shock and sadness by the sudden death of local schoolteacher Michael Morgan on October Bank Holiday Monday. A computer studies teacher at O Fiaich College in Dundalk, the popular St Josephs clubman died suddenly whilst taking part in the Dublin City Marathon. A member of staff at O Fiaich College for 14 years, Michael finished writing a computer studies book during the summer and was due to meet publishers with a view to having the book published. The former club footballer was deeply involved in health and fitness initiatives in the school and had undergone months of training for the marathon. A lifelong member of his local GAA club, he had represented the Joes with great distinction as a player. He was on the team that triumphed in the 1990 Louth intermediate football championship and was a substitute when the Joes brought Joe Ward back to the village for the very first time in 1996. Michael was also married to Denise that same magical year and, sadly, was laid to rest on his tenth wedding anniversary. As Dromiskin came to a standstill, St Josephs – county champions again – and O Fiaich College formed a Guard of Honour at the removal.

Paddy ‘Wagger’ Byrne (Togher)
The community of Togher was saddened by the death of one of its most popular citizens when Paddy ‘Wagger’ Byrne passed away in late October. Involved in the farming community, Paddy was a prominent member of the locality and was a stalwart Gael in the Togher area. He started his football with St Colmcilles and was a central figure on the side that won the second division and Ranafast Cup in 1950. He became active with Naomh Fionnbarra after their formation in 1957 and collected Macardle Cup medals with them in the early ‘60s. A great club supporter for the rest of his life, Paddy was known throughout he Wee County for his love of football, music and dancing.
- Naomh Fionnbarra GFC

Fr Dominic Rafferty (Cooley)
Fr Dominic Rafferty from Earlsquarter, Riverstown passed away on November 1 2006, aged 71. Fr Dom has worked in the parishes of Knockbridge and Carlingford/Omeath (as well as various parishes in England) during his priesthood. He possessed a fantastic interest in gaelic games throughout his life and served St Brides GFC as chairman. He was also chairman and manager of Tir na nOg GFC in Portadown, County Armagh and served as chairman of the London Minor Board. Upon returning to his beloved Cooley, Fr Dom became secretary of the Kickhams. Members of Cooley Kickhams GFC provided a Guard of Honour at Fr Dom’s removal and mourners were later gathered in the Kickhams clubrooms to honour his memory.

Paddy Quigley (Dundalk)
The sudden untimely death of Paddy Quigley from Muirhevnamor, Dundalk and formerly of Kilsaran, Castlebellingham took place on November 4 2006, causing widespread sadness in the Dundalk and Castlebellingham areas. Paddy had a keen interest in both gaelic football and soccer. He played with O’Connells during the mid-eighties and, although he won no honours, served the club well. After he stopped playing, he took a keen interest in his son’s sporting achievements with the club. Paddy will also be remembered as a founding member of Glyde Celtic FC in the area during the early ‘90s.
- O’Connells GFC

Michael Judge (Drogheda)
Newtown Blues has lost one of its most vital members with the sad passing of Michael Judge of Ascal a hAon, Yellowbatter, Drogheda. The three great loves in Mick’s live were his family, music and the GAA. And most of his gaelic games passion was reserved for his beloved Newtown Blues GFC. He was Honorary President of the club at the time of his death. He played football for the Blues when the club was going through difficult times and he served the Blues diligently as treasurer for 40 years from 1955. Mick acted as selector on ten championship-winning teams and was a father figure to the new generation of Blues players as he regularly attended training sessions as well as matches. The passing of Michael Judge leaves a massive void in Drogheda’s most famous GAA club.

Richard ‘Dick’ Usher (Monasterboice)
Richard ‘Dick’ Usher from Sillogue in Monasterboice played for Naomh Mairtin GFC in the 1960s. A quiet and unassuming gentleman, he was also a highly-regarded club treasurer for many years.
- Naomh Mairtin GFC

Jim McGinn (Monasterboice)
The late Jim McGinn from Kellystown, Monasterboice was a founder member of Naomh Mairtin GFC back in 1957. He played for the club in the 1950s and into the early ‘60s. He will be sadly missed by his family and many friends.
- Naomh Mairtin GFC

Paddy Caffrey (Walshstown)
The late Paddy Caffrey was originally from Annagassan but lived in Walshstown when he passed away. He played for O’Connells in the 1960s.
- O’Connells GFC

Gerry Kiernan (Dunleer)
Gerry Kiernan of Mullinscross, Dunleer passed away in the Beaumont Hospital on July 28 2006 surrounded by his family, having celebrated his 76th birthday just six days before his untimely death. Gerry was a staunch lifelong supporter of O’Connells and lined out at full back on the 1956 team that was beaten by St Mochtas in the Division Two championship. Although he won no medals with O’Connells, his love for the club never diminished and, while he was their harshest critic, he was also one of their most loyal supporters. He was immensely proud of the team when they gained senior status and played in the senior championship for the first time in over 70 years. Gerry was employed in St Mary’s, Drumcar for over 48 years as a groundsman/horticulturalist and his skills were often called upon when a gangmower needed setting. He always felt that the club should be a part of the community and was very much in favour of the club’s current development plans. Unfortunately, he will not see them bear fruit. The O’Connells flag proudly adorned his coffin as he reposed at his residence and past and current members of the team provided a Guard of Honour at his removal and burial in Kilsaran Cemetery.
- O’Connells GFC

Nicolas Fanning (Castlebellingham)
The late Nicolas Fanning from Sea Road, Castlebellingham died on September 27 2006, aged 81. Nicholas was born in Castlebellingham and played football with O’Connells. He was also involved in building the club’s first dressing rooms. In later years, he became a trustee and honorary president. Nicholas also had a great interest in fishing, gardening and reading. He was loved by young and old, known to many as Dad Nicolas. He is survived by his wife Kathleen, son Nicolas and daughter Pamela.
- O’Connells GFC

Paddy Kearney (O’Connells)
O’Connells lost one of its former players, Paddy Kearney, in 2006. Paddy played for the club for a number of years and supported them all his life. He will be sadly missed by everyone, especially his family.
- O’Connells GFC