Meath Obituaries 2006

Pat Farrelly (Kilmainhamwood)
Pat was a member of the well known north Meath family and like his brothers was heavily involved in local affairs. High among this list of involvements was the Kilmainhamwood GAA club. Pat was a very active committee member. His brother John was a former Leinster winning minor and of course, a local TD for quite a number of years. Another brother, Denis, was a former Deputy Vice Chairman of the Meath County Board. In recent years Pat Farrelly’s company, College Proteins were the proud sponsors of the Meath Intermediate Football Championship.

Fr Patrick Reilly (Carnaross/Moynalty)
Fr Reilly was an extremely popular parish priest of Moynalty for 21 years. A native of nearby Carnaross, he followed the fortunes of both local clubs and the Meath team very closely. He was a president of Moynalty GAA club.

Margaret Reilly (Kells/Ballinacree)
Margaret was a member of the Arkins family from Kells who have a long association with the local Gaeil Colmcille club.

Michael Tuite (Ballinacree)
Michael was a very popular gentleman in the area and his sons Michael, Thomsie and Barney have made huge contributions on and off the field to the local St Brigids club for generations

Jacinta Carpenter (Kells)
Jacinta’s father Hughie Lynch played for Meath in the 1939 All-Ireland senior football final.

Margaret Farrelly (Ballinacree)
Margaret was the mother of former Meath and St. Brigids Ballinacree stars Gerry and Peter Farrelly. Other sons Connie, Paddy, Michael and the late Brian all pulled on the Brigids jersey and served with distinction.

Cian Dempsey (Kiltale)
Twenty three year old Cian died tragically in Spain at the end of last year. He was the son of former St. Michaels Boys National School Trim principal Sean Dempsey, one of 11 brothers. In recent years Sean was a well known photographer at GAA games around Meath and was involved with county final programmes which received McNamee Awards. Cian’s uncles include County Board Chairman Brendan Dempsey and popular Fianna Fail Minister Noel Dempsey.

Jim Forde (Mayo/Drumbaragh)
Jim was a native of Kiltimagh in Mayo. His sons Jim, John and Huge have provided tremendous service to the local Drumbaragh club.

Jim Kelly (Dublin/Drumree)
Jim was a native of Dublin and in the early 1980s along with Ray McManus, founded the well known photographic agency Sportsfile, which specialises in GAA activity. A minutes silence in memory of Jim was held in Pairc Tailteann prior to the Meath - DCU O’Byrne cup fixture last January. He was Photographer of the Year in 1987.

Tilly McLoughlin (Trim)
Nee Whelan from Pike Corner, Tilly was a well known camogie player in her younger days with Kilmessan.

Paddy Doohan (Dunshaughlin)
Eighteen year old Paddy was the only son of Anne and Christopher Doohan and was a popular member of the St. Martins panel that reached the county minor decider earlier in 2005.

Jack Guirke (Moylagh/Clonmellon)
Jack played with Moylagh and Millbrook in his younger days. A keen sportsman and up until recent years a prominent runner, his nephews and nieces are heavily involved with Moylagh GAA club.

Paddy Dunne (Kinnegad/Trim)
Popularly known as ‘the Dunner’, Paddy played county football with both his native Westmeath and Galway. He ran the well known Dunner Arms public house in Kinnegad for many years.

Patrick Fox (Balrath)
Popularly known as Sonny, Patrick hailed from Fenagh in Leitrim. He would be regularly seen at Seneschalstown and Meath matches.

Tommy Mullen (Oldcastle)
Tommy was a well known and immensely popular figure around Oldcastle and north Meath. Highly respected in business circles, Tommy was involved in numerous local voluntary groups. His son Tom was a star footballer, with Oldcastle during the 80s and 90s and won an All-Ireland junior medal during 1988.

Paddy O’Brien (Tullamore/Trim)
Paddy hurled from Tullamore but still had time to support both the Faithful and the Royals.

Seamus Timmons (Fordstown)
Seamus was a quite useful footballer in his younger days and acted as both a selector and a player with the old Fordstown team. He was a selector when the Kells parish outfit gained Junior Championship honours in 1954. Seamus had followed the fortunes of the Meath team since 1939.

Mary O’Byrne (Dunmoe)
Mary was a native of Dublin. Her late husband Jim O’Byrne, was a veteran of the War of Independence and the Civil War. Her son Seamus and grandson John are actively involved with Commons Hardware, at present the proud sponsors of the Meath Senior Football Championship.

Sarah Murtagh (Navan)
Sarah was in her 100th year. Her sons James and John have provided terrific off the field service to Simonstown since the club’s formation.

Patrick (Paddy) Farnan (Carnaross)
A well known member of the north Meath community, Paddy was a very useful footballer in his younger days and won a Meath Junior Championship medal with Carnaross in 1941. Paddy lined out at midfield that day and later played in the losing finals of 1945, ‘50 and ‘52. A month before his death he was honoured at the club’s annual dinner dance where he enjoyed meeting all the members of club teams since those early years.

Dessie Maguire (Tara)
One of the very popular and sporting Maguire family. Dessie won an All-Ireland army hurling medal. Add in numerous running medals gained with Kilmessan AC. A star hurler with Kilmessan, he was a Hall of Fame recipient with the club. Dessie’s son Michael played in the blue of Skryne for years. His grandson, Michael’s son David was a star defender on the St. Patricks College team which contested the All-Ireland decider last spring.

Liam Callaghan (Navan/Canada)
Liam played with the old Boyerstown club in his younger days before emigrating to Australia. He later moved to Canada and coached the St. Vincents club to many victories, including the North American Junior Championship in 1976. Liam always remained a loyal supporter of the Meath football team and travelled home for many of the big matches.

Huge O’Reilly (Nobber/Dublin)
Huge, a very successful businessman, was proud of his Meath roots and always supported the Meath team. In the mid 1970s he built the Ardboyne Hotel and he and his wife Sheila ran it for a number of years.

Angela Duggan (Kilbride)
Angela was a great Meath supporter. A number of her family are actively involved in the GAA and the weekend before her death she had listened to the O’Byrne Cup game between Meath and Westmeath on the radio.

Sean Muldoon (Kells)
Sean was the first chartered accountant to set up practice in the county. Among his list of achievements was his role as past captain and president of Headfort Golf Club. A tremendous all round sportsman, Sean was a star county minor and was a regular on the Meath senior team during the early 1950s. He won an All-Ireland Junior medal in 1952 and an All-Ireland Senior medal two years later. Sean was a regular with Kells Harps for a number of years, usually lining out at midfield or full forward and appeared in two senior finals with the Kells club.

Thomas Fitzgerald (Kilskyre)
The ever popular Tommy ran the local shop in Kilskyre for many years. He was a top class and stylish defender on Kilskyre hurling teams of the 1950s and 60s.

Graham Black (Bettystown)
Popular Graham was only 19 years of age when he sadly passed away. His two great sporting passions were Manchester United and the Meath team. Graham followed the fortunes of the Royals from a very early age and travelled regularly to shout on his favourites.

John Joe McCormack (Ballinabrackey)
John Joe or JJ was one of the best known personalities in south Meath. He was a tremendous all round sportsman and amongst his list of achievements was acting as the President of the National Cycling Association (NCA) in the 1960s. Later on in the 1970s JJ was treasurer of the National Athletic and Cycling Association of Ireland (NACAI). He was a founding member of Ballinabrackey Athletic Club in 1938 and was the Irish 25 mile cycling champion during the 1940s. His sons all wore the Ballinabrackey jersey and JJ, who won a Leinster under 14 medal in 1976 and a minor one four years later, was one of the best ever underage footballers to grace the county. JJ (senior) was an uncle of former Meath and Ballinabrackey star Colm Brazil. Another son Ruairi, also wore the Meath jersey at underage and junior levels.

Fr. Aidan Fox (Westmeath/Meath)
Fr. Aidan Fox, a native of Kilbeggan was parish priest of Multyfarnham in Westmeath at the time of his death. He served in a number of Meath parishes including Kells, Trim and Castletown and was a huge GAA supporter.

Elizabeth (Betty) Barry (Walterstown)
Betty was the mother of former Meath manager Eamonn Barry and of former Meath junior manager Martin. Another son John, like his two brothers, played a key part in the tremendous run of the Walterstown senior team of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Nee Bowens, Betty’s father Nicky was one of the founding members of Walterstown, a club she simply adored. Betty married her late husband Richie in 1959. Richie, of course, played for Meath, was an excellent referee, and played a key part behind the scenes as Walterstown simply rose and rose. On the day of Betty’s removal, a match between Meath and Armagh to mark the opening of the new Walterstown clubhouse went ahead as planned, and a cup to commemorate the same Richie Barry was presented after the game. Betty was a noted camogie player in her youth, while one of her brothers Christy, played a pivitol role, usually at centre half back on that great Walterstown selection.

Charlie McCartan (Down/Moynalty)
A member of the famous Down football dynasty, Charlie came to settle in the Moynalty area. A number of his sons wore the Moynalty jersey, especially at underage level.

Tommy Brennan (Kilberry/London)
Tommy was a member of the Kilberry club and remained an avid GAA supporter while living in England.

Robert (Robbie) O’Connell (Stahalmog/Kingscourt)
A great GAA supporter, Robbie played on the Carlanstown team which gained Meath intermediate championship honours in 1945. Just a few short months prior to his death, he and a group of survivors from that team were presented with crystal pieces to honour that achievement by the St. Michaels club. Robbie was immensely proud of the achievements of his nephew Martin O’Connell while one of his sons Robbie was the driving force behind the great Kingscourt teams of over a decade ago.

Veronica (Rita) Redmond (Navan/Dublin)
Rita is survived by her son Shane, a name famous in the property business and who is a huge Meath GAA supporter

Tommy Powderly (Ardbraccan)
Tommy spent a lifetime in the construction business and was an avid Meath supporter. He rarely missed a game. He played with Kilberry in his youth and was part of the team that won the Meath minor football championship in 1955. His son Paddy lined out with Simonstown from juvenile up to senior levels.

John Reilly (Ballinlough)
John was a native of the Stonefield area of Kilskyre parish and a number of his sons and grandsons are involved with the Ballinlough club

Patrick Cahill (Moynalty/Navan)
Patrick, who hailed from Moynalty, was a great follower of the Meath team

Joseph ‘Junie’ Dillon (Syddan)
When people talked about Syddan and their football club the name Junie Dillon usually shot to the fore. I think it can be safely said that no man still living has contributed more to the Syddan cause than Junie. And the very Dillon family have been synonymous with the north Meath club for generations. Junie’s football days on the pitch commenced as the great Syddan team of the late 40s, early 50s were coming to the end of their day. He won a Keegan Cup medal in 1952, the only time the trophy named after a great Syddan player arrived in the parish, and usually lined out at full forward. But it was in the halls of administration that Junie Dillon’s name became a household one. When Syddan made a bold effort to re-establish themselves as a senior club during the late 70s and early 80s, he acted as Club Chairman and indeed doubled up as a selector on the side that went under to an excellent Walterstown XV in the Keegan Cup decider of 1980. He was one of the founder members of the Meath Supporters club back in the 1980s and was to the fore in the development and fundraising required to get Pairc Ludlow up and running. Later Junie was one of the main instigators in the upkeep of Pairc Ludlow. A GAA fanatic, Junie rarely missed a Meath game in Croke Park and was proud of the fact that his nephew, Martin O’Connell went on to star for the Royal County before being selected at left half back on the Team of the Century. And for Joseph Dillon, Syddan matches simply could not be missed. He was ill for some time but nothing was going to stop him attending last year’s two intermediate deciders featuring Syddan and Duleek. Special permission was granted and Junie watched from his car on the banks of Pairc Tailteannn. His passing will leave a huge void in the GAA circles of Syddan and north Meath

Paddy Mallon (Boyerstown)
Paddy played football with both Boyerstown and Dunderry in his younger days. He ran a very popular shop on Navan’s Brews Hill for a number of years and his sons were prominent footballers with Navan O’Mahonys. He was a huge supporter of Meath football.

Gerry Corcoran (Crossakiel/Lobinstown)
Gerry was a very popular figure in the Syddan area. Originally from Crossakiel, he purchased a shop in Lobinstown back in 1961 and it became one of the focal points of the local community. A great Meath and Syddan supporter, he stocked and sold every issue of Royal County since its birth back in 1986

Paddy Duff (Kells)
Paddy was a well known businessman in north Meath. A native of Kells, he was involved in numerous organisations within the locality and was a founder member of Kells Handball Club

Caoimhe McCann
(Portadown)
Little nine month old Caoimhe, who was so tragically taken from this life, was the daughter of Armagh All-Ireland hero Andy McCann, who last spring transferred to Seneschalstown. Caoimhe’s mother Emma is a member of the popular Hanley family from Slane

George Heary (Kells)
George, who lived to the grand old age of 91, had a lifetime of involvement with the Drumbaragh club and started his playing career in the 1930s He was President of the club at the time of his death

Owen Kelly (Bellinter/Carnaross)
Owen moved to Carnaross some years past. An avid Walterstown supporter, he rarely missed a game when the Blacks were at their peak in the late 70s, early 80s. His brother Malachy was a vital part of that all conquering squad. Fifty four year old Owen worked for 37 of those years in Navan Carpets

Richard ‘Dickie’ Reilly (Oldcastle)
Dickie hailed from Ballinvalley, just outside the north Meath town. A very patriotic and loyal Meath supporter, he had acted as a lorry driver for Gleneagle Woodcrafts and had served the firm for 40 years. Only weeks previous, his mother Bridget sadly passed away

Sean McDermott (Navan)
Sean was the son of legendary Meath ‘Great’ Peter McDermott. Sean was a big GAA supporter and is also survived by his brother Dermot, a former player with Navan O’Mahonys

Paul Quinn (Navan)
Paul died after an accidental collision while playing for local soccer team Navan Cosmos. He was a noted underage player with O’Mahonys and acquired many medals in those underage competitions. His brother Stephen was an excellent underage player with Simonstown.

Jane Meade (Wilkinstown/Dublin)
Jane was from a well known north Meath family and was heavily involved with the Royal Meath Association in Dublin. She was the retired postmistress of Castkeknock Post Office and a big Meath GAA supporter

Mary ‘Cissy’ Mullen (Kilmainham/Bellewstown)
Mary hailed from outside Kells and lived to the grand old age of 98 years. Following her husband’s death, she moved to the east Meath hillside village where her daughter Rose is the popular local postmistress. Her grandsons Hugh John and Eric O’Reilly have worn the Bellewstown, Simonstown and Meath underage jerseys.

Jennie Conlon (Navan)
Jennie was a very popular nurse in Navan for a number of years. Her family are heavily involved in the Simonstown club. Her son Ciaran served as Juvenile Secretary during 2006 while Jennie’s grandson Padraic McKeever was a regular on this year’s Meath Under 15 team

Desmond (Dessie) Smyth - Batterstown
Dessie passed on to greener fields on the 1st of April 2006. He came from the well known Smyth family and his brother Brian captained Meath in 1949 to win the Sam Maguire for the first time. Dessie played both codes with Batterstown, Ratoath and St Patricks (a combination of Batterstown, Ratoath and Kiltale). They went on to win the Senior Hurling Title in 1953. He plyed his trade as goalkeeper in hurling and in the forwards for football, playing for many years in goals for the Meath hurlers. His later life interests were supporting Meath footballers and hurlers and locally the Blackhall club. He was to be seen in the pitch most evenings, watching the upcoming talent. His greatest admiration was the bringing home of the Keegan Cup in 2003 and the hurlers winning intermediate in 2005. Dessie was also a great supporter of the Meath 25s cards for the County Board. The legacy and memories of Dessie Smyth with live long in Batterstown. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Blackhall Gaels GAA

Niall Bracken (Batterstown)
Blackhall Gaels GAA was greatly saddened by the untimely passing of Niall Bracken. Niall was an avid supporter and friend of Blackhall Gaels’ hurlers. He filled the role of photographer for the club on certain occasions and also helped to run the club’s now annual Good Friday fundraising event. He will be sorely missed by his friends in Blackhall Gaels. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Blackhall Gaels GAA

Mícheál Ó Laighléis - Michael Lillis (Limerick/Kilcloon)
It was with great shock and sadness that the people of the parish of Kilcloon and the members of Blackhall Gaels football, hurling and camogie Club reacted to the relatively sudden and unexpected news of the death of Mícheál Ó Laighléis on the 16th of July this year. We all knew, as he said himself at the time, that he was 'embracing' a serious illness but we fully believed that he would be with us for many more years. In a summer that will be remembered for its brightness Mícheál's death cast a dark shadow over the parish and the club.
Mícheál Ó Laighléis touched the lives of all those who were lucky enough to know him. A native of Patrickswell, Co. Limerick he and his wife Marie and three girls came to settle in Brownstown, Kilcloon in the early 1990's. He had spent most of his professional life as a forester in Killarney, Co. Kerry and Feakle, Co. Clare. The Irish word 'ildánach' was used to describe Micheál on a blistering hot summer's day as his remains were laid to rest in Kilcloon cemetery. The loose English translation of 'versatile' or 'multi-talented' cannot but palely describe this wonderful people's person. He embodied community and while his versatility encompassed the roles of chairman, leader, gaeilgeoir, storyteller, poet and selector he was above all a family man.
Fr. Harry Bohan, a long-standing friend from Feakle who read the funeral mass, eloquently defined Mícheál's contribution by stating that he was the best community person he had ever known. Whether he was fund raising for the community centre or promoting the local water scheme Mícheál was actively involved in many aspects of community life. He worked with astonishing enthusiasm and energy to unite club and community and frequently referred to the parish as being 'from Kilglyn to Quarryland'.
Mícheál will be undoubtedly remembered for his outstanding contribution as Chairman of Blackhall Gaels GAA club from 2001 to 2004. As chairman he was challenging in the best sense of the word. He quickly united the club and parish behind a comprehensive three stage plan to improve club facilities. The drainage and upgrading of the pitch in Kilcloon, the first class dressing rooms, hall and meeting room in Batterstown and the final phase of work currently being undertaken on providing new facilities in Kilcloon will all stand in permanent testament to Mícheál.
2003 was the most successful year for this relatively young club. Under Mícheál's leadership the Keegan Cup was brought to the parish for the first time as Blackhall Gaels were crowned Meath senior football champions. The ladies won the intermediate championship and the juvenile section was successful in five competitions. Blackhall Gaels were named Club of the Year in 2003. At the AGM that same year a club book 'The Spirit of the Gaels' was launched. As one member recorded on the club website Mícheál did not do all of this on his own but he had the ability to point people in the right direction, instill a confidence and build a team with a vision of success.
It was this sense of vision that provided Mícheál with a role on the club executive when he stood down from the chair. He was working on the process of drawing up a five year plan for the club right up to the time of his hospitalisation. He had also been a selector with the senior team and had gained the respect and warm affection of the players with his passionate and inspirational words in the dressing room.
Words seemed to come easy to Mícheál. He was a natural 'seanchaí' and could instantly enthrall you with stories as diverse as the interests he held. They ranged from Limerick, Clare and Tipperary hurling to Munster rugby with trips to the land of the mid-night sun thrown in for good measure! Every major achievement by the club was recorded by Mícheál in verse and his vocal rendition was eagerly awaited on the night of celebration. And how he enjoyed a good night out! He was indeed a 'buachaill beo'.
Friendship and community were very important to Mícheál. The large attendance at his removal service and funeral mass from those from within the parish and beyond - Patrickswell, Feakle, colleagues from Coillte and friends from as far as Finland bear witness to that importance.
However great Mícheál's loss is to those of us in club, parish and beyond it is nothing in comparison to that which is left in the lives of his loving family. To Marie, Ciara, Siobhán and Róisín we offer you our prayers, comfort and support.
Mícheál Mór Ó Laighléis ar dheis Dé go raibh d'anam dílís Gaelach.
Blackhall Gaels GAA

Dessie O’Brien (Kilcloon)
Blackhall Gaels and the parish of Kilcloon were deeply saddened at the untimely passing of Dessie O’Brien late of Harristown, Kilcloon. This sadness was further compounded by the death of Dessie’s wife Patricia less than a year earlier, both of whom will be sadly missed by their daughters Olivia and Tara and son Cyril.
The O’Brien family have made a huge contribution to the GAA over the years firstly with Kilcloon and later with Blackhall Gaels. Dessie’s father, the late Cyril O’Brien was a driving force within the Kilcloon Club, serving on numerous committees down through the years. This is reflected in the fact that the grounds in Kilcloon are named after himself along with the late Jack Fitzgerald and John Kelly who acted as Trustees for the Club when it acquired the playing pitch back in 1963. Dessie along with his three brothers Noel, John and Gerry played at underage and adult level, providing the backbone of the team for many years. Today the third generation of the family are representing the club in continuing a great family tradition.
Dessie first came to prominence playing Juvenile football with Kilcloon/Batterstown under the stewardship of Fr. Martin Burke. He was a key member of the U-14 team that reached the county final in 1965 for the first time in the club’s history only to lose to Yellow Furze by a single point in a thrilling contest. Another notable milestone in his underage career was reaching the U-21 football championship final in 1972. The semi-final was notable for two drawn games against Dunderry with Dessie and Gerry again playing key roles at midfield throughout that championship.
Dessie progressed to the adult grade while still in his teens. Undoubtedly the high point in his playing career was in 1973, again playing at midfield, he captained Kilcloon to the county junior football championship defeating Gibbstown in the final. The significance of this victory was that it bridged a gap of 48 years from the club’s first title in 1925 while proving to be their last success at this level prior to amalgamation. He also wore the Meath county jersey on a number of occasions.
When Dessie’s playing career was over he turned his attention to coaching with Blackhall Gaels at underage level. The pinnacle of his achievement was his involvement with the U-13 Football team who defeated Navan O’Mahony’s in the 1994 county final. This final was remarkable as the Gaels stormed back to reduce an eleven point interval deficit to take the title and went on to represent their county in the All Ireland Féile series held in Mayo.
The team which included Dessie’s son Cyril and nephews John and Dermot won through the group stages and were unlucky to be beaten by a single point in the semi-final. The team and mentors were based in Claremorris in an event which will be long remembered for its sporting and social success.
One cannot write of Dessie without recalling his contribution as a referee in underage competitions. In particular, the P&L Cup and the Paddy McHugh Memorial Cup are to be associated with Dessie as the ‘man with the whistle’. Whilst he always officiated in a fair manner he also showed his kind nature in the way he may have bent the rules to allow a very young player their moment on the ball (even if it was clearly picked clean off the ground).
Dessie O’Brien, friend, neighbour, footballer, mentor and referee you will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by your many friends from far and wide.
“ Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís”
Blackhall Gaels GAA

An appreciation of Geraldine Kelly (Dunboyne)
Geraldine loved to watch her sons Paul and Patrick play Gaelic football and hurling. She went to most of the games and gave our boys great encouragement. She never lost sight of the fact that at the end of the day it’s just a game and it’s to be enjoyed.
She saw Paul win the 2002 Under 13 and the 2005 Under 16 county football and hurling finals and go on to play midfield for Meath Under 16 football team in 2005. Paul was injured for the Feile success in 2003 but Geraldine supported the team as enthusiastically as if he was playing. She also saw Patrick win Under 14 and Under 16 county hurling medals and “The Pa” was man-of-the-match in the 2005 under 14 county final, scoring 2-1 that day.
In writing this piece, I asked Paul and Patrick to jot down their sporting memories of their Mam.
This is Paul’s (17) thoughts
“Every player experiences a bad day, when nothing seems to go right for them, either the ball just will not go over the bar or passes never find their man. I’ve had many of those days but my Mam whether I played good or bad, said ‘I was great’ regardless.
The fact that football and hurling is just a game at the end of the day has been forgotten by many and sometimes enjoyment can be lost through countless hard training sessions and pressure going into matches, but my Mam only saw the enjoyable side of matches.
Although when we used to watch Limerick hurling matches or Munster rugby games together she could damage your hearing with the screaming and shouting she did.
My Mam always encouraged me to play sports and I am proud and happy to know that she will be remembered and honoured in a tournament every year.”
Patrick (14) jotted down his reflections of Mam and how much she loved to see him play:
“My mother Geraldine Kelly was never shy, she would always shout for everybody on the team. If she heard people on the sideline giving out to a young player who was trying his/her best she would always cheer for that individual.
After any important matches – final – semi-Final she was always there for me with tears in her eyes, tears of happiness and proud of what her son had achieved. I would always hug her after a game no matter who was around. My mother would always give out about people who were aggressive towards their team.
So on her behalf I would like to say to all those people in clubs all over the country and in Dunboyne take a long look at yourself and just ask why?”
To finish this piece in memory of Geraldine I asked Katie (5) if she has any memories of going to matches with Mammy. She thought for a few moments and said “yes” and I asked what do you remember, “Mammy” she replied.
I look forward to the day when Katie is presenting the cup named in honour of her Mammy – Geraldine Kelly June 15th 1956 – August 28th 2006.
Dunboyne GAA club

Mrs Pearl Baxter - Slane
Mrs Pearl Baxter, Hill of Slane, who died at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, aged 87, was one of the county’s best known community workers and a person who devoted considerable energies, along with her late husband Peter, to the welfare and interests of her native village.
Born Pearl Vaughey in the cottage which was the home of Ellie Vaughey, sweetheart of the poet Francis Ledwidge, she spent her life on the Hill and was deeply loved and respected by a wide circle of friends and community co-workers who admired her capacity for voluntary work but also her dry wit.
At a time in the 1960s when the Muintir na Tire clubs were sprouting up all over Meath, Pearl and Peter were founder members of the Slane club, and for some time Pearl acted as secretary of the organisation’s Meath Federation.
She was a founder member of Slane Credit Union, an organisation which is thriving today. As a couple Peter and Pearl had a deep love for the writings of their local poet and promoted his memory wherever they went. They were founder members of the Ledwidge Cottage, a museum located in the poet’s former home.
She was Honourary President of the committee and served as an active member until recently.
About a year ago, when her daughter Rosemary and son-in-law Colm Yore told her they were taking her on a trip away, Pearl was intrigued but had no idea where she was off to.
It was only when the plane touched down in Belgium that she realised she was being brought to visit the grave of Slane’s most famous son, Francis Ledwidge.
And it delighted her. In all her years of promoting his name, she had never visited his grave. They visited his grave in Flanders cemetery on 31st July, the 87th anniversary of his death.
Other local organisations which had the benefit of her knowledge and organisational abilities included the Irish Farmers Association (IFA), the Slane Historical Society, and the Tidy Towns Committee. Pearl was also involved in the work of The Summit, the local newsletter in one of its earlier incarnations.
Pearl was overtaken by illness since before Christmas and was cared for at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Her family have spoken of the very professional and kind care devoted to her by the whole staff on the second floor medical, including Drs O’Boyle and Dolan and her GP Dr Eugene Kearney.
She is survived by her son Ciaran, daughter Rosemary; brother-in-law Phil Baxter, Cork, sister-in-law Maureen Murray, Gormanston; relatives and friends.
At the removal of remains to Slane church, member of various community organisations in Slane formed a guard of honour as the cortege arrived. The remains were received by Very Rev Joe Deegan, PP Slane. Her funeral mass was concelebrated by Fr Deegan and Fr John Brogan and her funeral took place to the old cemetery on the Hill of Slane.
(In memory of the lady who kept the name and writings of Francis Ledwidge very much to the fore)

Thomas Lang (Oldcastle)
Thomas was a native of Tubride just outside the north Meath town. He was a tremendous follower of football at all levels and was Honorary President of Oldcastle GFC up to the time of his death. His nephews - the Packenhams and their families are heavily involved with the club

Pat Ward (Drumconrath/Nobber)
Pat served as a committee member. He was also a former Drumconrath player and committee member.

Nancy Eoghan (Nobber)
Nancy was a sister of Peter Eoghan, a loyal servant of the north Meath club

Peggy Carolan (Nobber)
Peggy was the wife of the late Jimmy Carolan, sister in law of current county committee member Oliver Carolan and aunt of Sean, Alan and Ger

Michelle Curtis (Nobber)
Michelle was a niece of Nobber players Martin and Tommy Curtis

Mrs McDermott (Mullaghboy, Kilmainhamwood)
She was the grandmother of player Stephen McDermott.

Val Carty (Nobber)
Val was a brother of former Nobber committee member Joe Carty

Eileen McEntee (Nobber)
Eileen was a sister of former Nobber player Frank Cassidy

Brian McGuinness (Nobber)
Brian was a brother of the late Nobber player ‘Poppy’ McGuinness, who played on the 1946 junior team

Marie Finnegan (Nobber)
Marie was the aunt of Michael Finnegan junior and sister of the late Michael Finnegan of Cruicetown
[All supplied by Nobber GFC]

Kate Clinch (Garlow Cross)
Kate followed gaelic football passionately all of her life, even into her 90th year. She was a staunch supporter of both Walterstown and Meath. She is sadly missed by her children David, Mary, Pat, Oliver and Gemma and all her grandchildren
Walterstown GFC

Jimmy Clarke (Dunderry)
Jimmy played underage hurling and football with Dunderry before emigrating to Australia. He returned to Dunderry in 2006 with his wife and young family. Jimmy had just finished a house in Kilbride when he died after a tragic accident. The club formed a guard of honour at his funeral

Mary Heary (Drumbaragh)
A lifelong Drumbaragh supporter, Mary was married to current club president Jimmy. Her grandsons play for the Drums

Patrick Carry (Kells)
An excellent underage player with Round Towers and later with Drumbaragh, Patrick came from a traditional football family. His work brought him to England where he passed away. His brothers and cousins continue to wear the Drumbaragh jersey
Eva McMahon (Drumconrath)
Eva was the mother of former club chairman and trustee Paddy McMahon. She was grandmother of present day stars Pete, Padraig, Rory, Sean and Paul

Tommy Yore (Carnaross)
A great Carnaross GAA name, Tommy played at midfield on the winning junior and intermediate championship teams of 1955 and 1957. He also played in the losing final of 1952

Tommy Clarke (Simonstown)
It was with shock and sadness that members of Simonstown Gaels learned of the untimely passing of Tommy Clarke in a fire accident at the family home in Simonstown Lane on Monday, July 24th.
The Clarke family is synonymous with the establishment of the club in 1965 and Tommy served on the inaugural committee along with brothers Joe and Mickey. Indeed, the club’s first home was a field belonging to the Clarke family down Simonstown Lane.
Tommy also lined out with Simonstown in its fledgling years and remained an avid supporter and volunteer of the club throughout his life
Simonstown Gaels wishes to express its condolences to the Clarke family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilis.
Simonstown GFC

Dick Connelly (Boardsmill/Trim)
He was one of our outstanding servants on the hurling fields, playing in several positions on a variety of teams. Beaten in the junior final of 1950, he was on the team that won the junior final of 1956, coming from eleven points down at half time to win by one point; a great achievement. He went on then to take part in another marvellous achievement, winning the O’Growney Cup and the senior hurling championship for the first time in 1958. Dick took part in the team that won the SHC again in 1964. The Connelly name has always been associated with Boardsmill hurling and camogie, as Dick’s brother Johnny also played, whilst their sisters Betty and Molly played camogie. Other relations formed part of the great Boardsmill teams of the seventies. At the time of his death after a long illness, Dick was an honourary President of our club, and had just been selected as a recipient for our Hall of Fame award in January. To all of the members of his family, we extend our sincere sympathy
Boardsmill GAA

Mick Garry (Boardsmill/Trim)
Micky’s death came so suddenly that it shocked the whole parish and community. A man who was extremely well liked by everyone in Boardsmill, and after he got married and moved to Trim, he became a personality in the town. He never lost his love of Boardsmill and its teams, and was always heard giving advice to players and mentors, no matter where he was sitting within the grounds. He was entitled to give advice, as he had so many years of playing experience, winning three senior hurling championships in 1958, 1964 and 1971, with many other O’Growney Cups, leagues and tournaments in between. Just like Dick Connelly, who he often played alongside, Micky could man a number of positions. He started off at corner forward and won his last SHC in 1971 in that position. For many years, he was our goalkeeper, a position he played in when we lost the final in 1968 to Athboy. What may not be known about Micky is that he was an outstanding cross country runner. As a member of the Boardsmill Pioneer Club of the sixties, he won many county, individual and town titles. What people liked about him most was his attitude - ‘we will have a go’ was his philosophy and he enjoyed it. To his family we extend our sincere sympathy
Boardsmill GAA

Ned Farrelly (Longwood)
While not living in the parish of Boardsmill, Ned and his family are always associated with our club. His father played in years gone by; his brother Johnny was on the team of 1958, and his sons Ciaron and Eamon played for the club for many years. His daughters Jennie, Katie and Margaret played camogie, with Jennie winning many underage championships with Boardsmill. Ned himself did not play much, maybe a few junior games. He was more of a cross country runner, which was always very strong in Boardsmill. I will remember him from the field days and fundays that were held in almost every club in the sixties and seventies. There, Ned would excel in the sheaf throwing and the tug of war, which were very common at that time. He died after a long illness, and to his family we extend our sincere sympathy
Boardsmill GAA

Christo Hand (Ardcath)
There was widespread grief at the passing of legendary former Meath footballer Christo Hand.
The very name Christo Hand conjures up some marvellous memories for the older generation of Meath football supporters.
A native of Ardcath, he was left half back on the fabulous ‘49ers - the team that finally made the breakthrough by bringing the Sam Maguire Cup to the county for the first time.
Cavan were going for their third successive All-Ireland title and their forwards were the most highly rated in the country at the time.
The deceased and his colleagues in the Meath defence were magnificent throughout as evidenced by the statistic that each of Cavan’s six points came from frees. The final score as 1-10 to 1-6.
The late Christo came up through the minor ranks before winning his first Leinster senior medal in 1947.
He went on to play a key role in the first glorious era of Meath football. He won Leinster and All-Ireland medals in ‘49 when he formed a rock solid half back line with Rathkenny’s Seamie Heery and Ballivor’s Paddy Dixon.
Christo won another Leinster in 1951 and scored a magnificent opening point against Mayo in the All-Ireland final in which Meath were beaten.
Christo went on to win a National League in New York in the same year and another Leinster Championship in 1952, when he was also on the team beaten by Cavan in the All-Ireland final.
The Ardcath man played most of his club football with the Sean McDermotts club in Dublin, where he won a senior championship medal in 1947 but its likely that he extracted greater satisfaction from helping his native St . Vincents to win their one and only senior championship in 1955.
Ar Dheis de go raibh a anam.

Paddy Hanway (Dunboyne)
There was widespread sadness in Dunboyne and the surrounding areas at the passing of Patrick (Paddy) Hanway.
Paddy was a former chairman of Dunboyne GAA club and was a driving force behind its progress in recent decades. He served as a mentor as the club’s football team rose from junior to senior level during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Along with his brother Seamus, he was a great benefactor of the club through the family business, Tolka Plant Hire. They sponsored the local Superstars competition which was an important fundraiser for the club in years gone by and Man of the Match awards were often presented when Dunboyne teams reached a county final.
Paddy’s contribution to the club was recognised with a Hall of Fame award in 2003.
Throughout a long battle with illness, Paddy showed great courage and determination and Dunboyne GAA club and the local community have lost a great friend and servant whose sense of humour have left those who knew him with many fond memories.
Ar dheis de go raibh a anam (Dunboyne GAA)

Tony Newman (Dunderry)
Dunderry GAA suffered a great loss following the death of Tony Newman. The late Mr Newman was one of Dunderry’s outstanding players. He began his playing career with Tullaghanstown who were beaten by Duleek in the 1935 JFC decider.
When Tullaghanstown failed to affiliate, the deceased and two other Dunderry men, Tom Gannon and Tom Dowd, joined Kilmessan and helped them to win a senior football championship in 1939.
After Dunderry started a football team he came back to play and won intermediate football medals in 1944 and 1947. He played a number of times for Meath, his most notable game was a 1944 Leinster championship clash against Dublin in Drogheda when he lined out at midfield, alongside the great Bill Halpenny.
His playing career spanned 20 years. He was also a president of Dunderry and was an outstanding supporter since his playing days ended, he seldom missed a game. He was very proud when Dunderry won the 1995 SFC.
His son, Michael, was on the Dunderry team that won the 1990 IFC. We offer our sympathy to his wife Nancy and family
Dunderry GAA club

John Conroy (Dunderry)
Dunderry GAA were shocked by the sudden death of assistant-secretary, John Conroy this year. The late Mr Conroy played football with Dunderry and hurled with Boyerstown in 1958, before leaving, like many others of his generation, to work in London.
While there, he married the love of his life, Mary Kirby from Achill Island on St. Patricks Day 1961. They had three children Kevin, Helen and Michael. During this time he played football with the St. Monica’s GAA club in London, from 1958 to 1970. He was one of the early members of St. Teresa’s GAA club and in one year, they won the under 12, under 14, under 16, minor and under 21 titles.
The deceased was involved with all the teams and he also won medals in football tournaments in London. His football career extended into his 40s as he was often called upon to make up the numbers, which he did so with great gusto.
In 1999, John and Mary fulfilled a lifetime ambition to return home to Dunderry, but he was dealt a cruel blow when Mary passed away after a short illness, soon after their 40th wedding anniversary.
John rejoined Dunderry CLG that winter and was elected to the Executive Committee. In 2003 he was elected to the Building Committee and his experience of the building trade was to serve Dunderry well.
That year, Dunderry embarked on a project of selling Life Memberships for the club. John was to the forefront of this enterprise. His determination and commitment to this cause was exemplary.
His experience in London GAA was vital, as he had set up the club lotto in London and had organised Feis Ceol and dances there also. The project proved a great success and John was to the forefront of our endeavours. The ‘little red van’ travelled the length and breadth of the parish, collecting money for our building development.
His advice proved invaluable to the club, with quiet words of wisdom offered from his years of experience which helped in the completion of our new clubhouse. He was proud to see the handover of the clubhouse only a week before he passed away. John was delighted to see the ambitious plans realised. He passed away on Friday, 1st September.
It was a terrible loss for the club and his family.
A big man, with a big smile, people would remember him from collecting money at games in Dunderry for the last number of years.
At his funeral, glowing tributes were paid by Joe Lynch, Chairman of London Shamrocks GAA about his contribution to the GAA and Irish culture in London. If someone was down on their luck, John pushed work their way.
Daithi Stephens, on behalf of Dunderry GAA, gave glowing accounts of John’s life in Dunderry. A true family man who loved his family and his grandchildren dearly. His other passions were his animals and working on the bog, something he missed when living in London.
To his family, Kevin, Helen and Michael and grandchildren, to his sisters, Bridgette Higgins, Josephine Hennessy, Barbara Newman, Helen Duffy and Margaret Dunne, we extend our deepest sympathy.
He will be remembered as a man with a big smile, with great integrity. They club and parish will be poorer for his untimely passing.
Ar dheis de go raibh a anam
Dunderry GAA

Kitty Hoey (Kilmainham)
Kitty was a long time supporter of the Kilmainham club. For a long number of years she owned a shop on the Dublin road and it was from here that Kilmainham held many of their meetings. Kitty’s son Thomas played with the club

John Joe Gerrard (Killallon/England)
John Joe was a noted footballer with Ballinlough and a hurler with Kilskyre. Like many of his generation, he emigrated to England and died in London last May

Jim Mooney (Kilskyre/England)
Jim emigrated to Birkenhead in the late 1950s and his business, JJ Mooney and Sons, was the first concern from outside the country to sponsor a Meath club team. Not alone was he a sponsor but always a great supporter of the Kilskyre hurlers. Jim and his family remained in touch with home and returned regularly

Mick Cahill (Killallon)
Mick was on the championship winning Kilskyre teams of 1945 and ‘65. He also played football with Killallon and Ballinlough

Patsy Geraghty (Kilcarthy, Dunsany)
A keen hurler, Patsy won a junior championship medal with Kiltale in 1954. He had previously served as Chairman of the club in 1946. Patsy was a committee member and a President of Kiltale hurling club at the time of his death

Joseph Hanlon (Moylagh)
The head of a great GAA family, Joseph was President of the Moylagh club. One of his sons, the late Kevin was an outstanding full forward on the fine Moylagh team of the 1970s. He also acted as Club Chairman. Another son, Kieran, also played with the north Meath team and is the father of present Gaeil Colmcille star Brian Hanlon

John Egenton (Moylagh)
John played with Moylagh in the late 1950s and 1960s. Later on he acted as both Treasurer and Chairman of the club. From a very well known local family, his sons William and John Oliver also wear the club colours

Frank Govern (Moynalty/Oldcastle)
Frank was one of the most talented players of his generation in the county. Equally at home at half back or midfield but more especially in the half forward line, he was a smooth running athlete who played a key role in the emergence of the Moylagh club in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s. Originally from Moynalty, Frank was Principal of Oldcastle Primary School and in recent years became very active in underage football in the north Meath town

Elizabeth Smith (Kilmessan)
Elizabeth or Lily was the mother of talented dual star Jack Smith, who lined out in the Kilmessan, Dunsany and Dunderry colours. Jack played junior football and senior hurling for the county

Dickie Newman (Kilskyre)
Dickie was a life long member of Kilskyre hurling club and acted as Treasurer of the club in the 1960s

Carmel Mulligan (Kilcarthy, Dunsany)
From a well known GAA family, Carmel’s sons Eddie and Hughie both lined out in the Kiltale colours. Her daughter Ann was a former secretary of Kiltale camogie club. Hughie Mullingan’s sons play their hurling with Rathmolyon

John Costello (Kildalkey)
John was President of Kildalkey hurling club. His sons Tony and the late Noel both played with the west county unit. And the tradition continues with John’s grandsons Gary Costello, Conor Flynn and Ross Flynn all starring in the blue and white

Elizabeth Flynn (Kildalkey)
Betty, as she was popularly known, was a great GAA follower and a sister of the aforementioned John Costello

Thomas Kelly (Parkstown, Kildalkey)
Thomas’ sons Michael, PJ and Joseph all gave great service to the Kildalkey club

Margaret Kelly (Kildalkey)
Margaret’s sons Stephen and Martin lined out in the Kildalkey colours, as does her grandsons Gary Kelly and Conor Dunne

Andrew Hayes (Kildalkey)
William, the father of baby Andrew, played football for Kildalkey

Kathleen Murtagh (Frayne, Kildalkey)
Kathleen’s son in law, Dickie Masterson, was a star in the Kildalkey colours and Thomas Masterson, a grandson of Kathleen’s, continues the family tradition

Rebecca Fagan (Kildalkey)
Rebecca was only 16 years of age and played underage hurling for Kildalkey

Frank Kelly (Kildalkey)
Frank was involved with Kildalkey hurling club all of his life. Indeed, each of his brothers played with the club. A former club President, Frank was a member of the Kildalkey panel that gained junior championship honours in 1969 and followed it up with an intermediate title two years later

Jack Priest (Kildalkey)
Jack was a member of a family long associated with the Kildalkey club. His brothers, Paddy and Jim, were star players as were his nephews Pat, Eddie, Michael and Jim Priest
(All supplied by Kildalkey HC)

Kathleen Joyce (Duleek)
Kathleen’s son Adrian has given great service to the Duleek club

Michael Dillon (Kerry/Duleek)
Mick was born in Kerry and on moving to the area, immediately became involved with the Duleek club. He managed the fine Duleek minor teams of the late 1980s and acted as secretary of the club. Mick’s son Tommy was a regular on Meath junior teams of the early 1990s

Larry Lynch (Moynalty/London)
Larry originated from Dyrallagh, Moynalty. As a young lad he lined out with the Moynalty club before emigrating to London. His brother Hugh has provided the north Meath club with years of service, both as a player and treasurer. Larry’s nephews Michael, captain of the under 14 team and Andrew are stars of the future

Michael Finnegan (Moynalty/London)
Michael was late of Quigelagh, Moynalty. His brothers played with Moynalty as does his nephews. David Finnegan was a star of this year’s under 14 team

John Gilsenan (Kilmainhamwood)
John was a long serving member of Kilmainhamwood GFC and was Honourary President up until the time of his death. He was appointed Trustee of the pitch and grounds ever since its opening in 1984. John was a supreme fundraiser for the Wood and a terrific ticket seller. His brothers, Ollie, Frank, Martin and the late Patsy all played with distinction for the north Meath team. John’s sons Sean and Noel also played underage for Kilmainhamwood

Michael Cassells (Athboy/Kells)
A keen sportsman, Michael was from a well known Athboy family. His sons JJ and Aidan both played GAA for Kells

Johnny Dargan (Longwood)
Johnny was a former player with the club and won a senior hurling championship medal with the Wood in 1936, the only time Longwood captured the ultimate prize. Johnny’s grand nephew Karl Ennis is a current player with the club

Christina Rooney (Kilbride/Ratoath)
Although born in Fairyhouse Road, Ratoath, Christina (nee Reilly) moved to Kilbride at a very young age. Her brothers Christopher, Oliver and Patrick or PJ, all played with the Kilbride club. PJ was part of the successful Meath All-Ireland winning panel in 1957. During those days, Christine never missed a game when Kilbride were playing. On marrying, she moved back to Ratoath. According to the Ratoath club, “she never missed a game when club or county were playing, she lived for football”. All her sons played for Ratoath and Dermot was the manager of the Meath under 14 team during 2006. In recent years, Christina presented the Christy Rooney Cup in memory of her late husband to the winners of what is now an annual clash between Ratoath and neighbours Donaghmore-Ashbourne

Thomas Everard (Ratoath)
Tommy was a noted hurler and footballer. He was a key player on the St. Patricks hurling side, a team picked from Ratoath and surrounding parishes, which swept to Meath senior championship honours in 1953 and ‘54. Later he won a junior hurling championship with Ratoath in 1957 and a junior football medal in 1961. Tommy was good enough to play junior for the Meath hurlers

Marion Flynn (Bellewstown)
Marion was the mother of Martin and Anthony Flynn. Both played for Bellewstown with Martin wearing the Meath jersey at both junior and senior level. Martin also a acted as a Meath underage selector during 2006

Thomas Maguire (Kilcarthy, Dunsany)
Tommy was a member of the well known Maguire family. He spent most of his life in England and was an uncle of Fergal Maguire, a valued sponsor of Kilmessan hurling club

Liam Loughran (Kilmainhamwood)
The sudden death of Liam Loughran, 72, on April 30th, caused widespread shock and sadness in Kilmainhamwood and surrounding areas.
Liam was a talented footballer at underage and adult level and lined out for the Wood on many occasions, before emigrating to England in 1955. He was also a keen handballer.
On his return to Kilmainhamwood in 1973, he became an active supporter of the club at underage and adult level, an interest he retained until his untimely death. Liam was also an accomplished musician, accordion and mouth organ player, and was a member of the local Comhaltas branch for a number of years. A dedicated family man, Liam was also an avid gardener and fly fisherman.
The large crowd that attended his removal and funeral, bear witness to the esteem in which he was held. He is survived by his wife Margaret, daughter Gayle, and sons John and Pat

Eilish Kiernan - (Slane)
A tribute to Eilish by Slane GFC
The sadness at the recent sudden and untimely death of Eilish Kiernan, was felt throughout the entire community of Slane. But perhaps most especially within the ranks of Slane GFC and the wider body of Meath football. But put simply Eilish did everything for Slane GFC except line out on the pitch and play. At the time of her passing she was club president. The last in a line of officer positions she occupied during a lifetime service to the club. For many many years Eilish was club treasurer and also spent a period as secretary, but it is fair to say she was involved from the bottom up in Slane GFC.
For many years Eilish and her late husband Liam were central to the transport of many underage sides that wore the blue jersey and such duties were undertaken with a willingness and always accompanied by a smile no matter what the end result of the match itself. Of course football alone wasn't the sole string to Eilish Kiernans bow.
Although being a member of the Harding Family that had her brothers on practically every Slane team since the early 1950s, it was always going to be hard to escape the football bug.
Since the emergence of Meath as a football force, once more during the eighties, Eilish became Slane's answer to Ticketmaster. Charged with the purchase, allocation and distribution of the precious match tickets for all the Royal County games she was never found wanting and no one deserving of a ticket was left without one.
Indeed stories abound of her travelling huge distances for a vital swap just to make sure everyone in the club was covered. Her love for the game extended to her involvement with the Meath GAA Supporters Club and Chairman Jack Kiernan paid tribute to her efforts when he said "Eilish was a greatly valued member of the Supporters Club Committee for the last dozen years and is a huge loss to everyone involved here."
A sentiment that is readily echoed by all involved with Slane GFC.
For many years Eilish was to the forefront of Slane Credit Union, from which she will be sadly missed.
Condolences to her brothers, Oliver, Sean, Eamon, Anthony and Kevin, sisters Maureen and Cepta, sisters in law, brothers in law, relatives and a large circle of friends

Brian ‘Butch’ O’Connor (Curraha/Clonalvy)
There was widespread sadness following the sudden untimely death of Brian ‘Butch’ O’Connor who passed away on February 9th 2006.
Brian was born and raised in Cushinstown and later moved to Clonalvy where he lived with his wife Michelle and their three children, Billy, Sive and Charlie. Brian played some juvenile football with Duleek and later played with Curraha – togging out on regular occasions for various Curraha teams. An ardent Meath GAA supporter Brian would often be one of the first out onto the Croke Park pitch having managed to evade the watchful eye of the stewards. Indeed, there were many memories made and great times had especially during the years his life-long friend John McDermott was playing for the county. Brian was also very eager that his children would continue as big Meath supporters bringing them to many games each footballing season – his youngest son Charlie had a baptism of fire when at just five months old he was brought to the Meath Dublin Leinster Final in 1999. Brian has also family ties with Skryne and Donaghmore/Ashbourne GAA clubs.
It was fitting and poignant that Brian’s last Meath match was with many members of his family at the O’Byrne Cup Final in Pairc Tailteann just ten days before he passed away.
All who knew him will very much miss Brian and Curraha GAA club wishes to express its deepest sympathies to Brian’s family and friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam
Curraha GAA Club

Eugene Cluskey - Castletown
The sudden death of Eugene Cluskey on the 6th of April last shocked all in Castletown parish and in particular Castletown GFC.
Eugene was a useful footballer in his younger days and was a great supporter of all teams, in his later days he never missed a game the club played. It was on the club committee though that he really excelled. You could always depend on Eugene if you needed someone to do the gate for matches or make sure the dressings rooms were ready. He was proud to be our grounds man and you never had to ask him to put the flags, nets or mark the pitch for juvenile or adult games, Gene always seemed to know before anyone else.
One of his proudest moments was when he received his Hall of Fame award from the then County Chairman Fintan Ginnity, this award was greatly deserved. Gene also supported every social function the club ran from table quizzes to dances and always stayed behind to help clean up afterwards. Likewise Gene was a huge supporter of the club blotto.
Eugene's passing has left a huge void and he is sorely missed by everyone involved with Castletown GFC
An Appreciation - Castletown GFC

Jimmy Joe and Paul Finnegan (Lobinstown).
Jimmy Joe, father and his son Paul died within a matter of weeks of each other. Jimmy Joe played for Syddan during the 1950's and 60's. He was a great supporter of both the club and Meath. Paul died tragically in an accident and had played at underage level for the Syddan club

Bernadette Cassidy (Drumconrath)
Bernadette was the sister of Syddan full-back Martin Cassidy. Martin is assistant secretary and insurance officer of the Syddan Club

Tess Walsh (Moynalvey)
Tess was the wife of Richard Walsh, the Glens Road. Richard was a founder member of Moynalvey GFC and their sons and grandsons are heavily involved with the club

John Lynch (Summerhill)
John was the father in law of former Summerhill and Meath star Mattie Kerrigan. His daughter Marion is married to Mattie. His son, also John was an outstanding underage footballer before emigrating abroad while another son Martin Lynch is the well known horse trainer

Leo Reilly ( Stamullen)
Leo was the father of Patsy Tallon, the vice chairman of the St Patrick's Club.

Billy Doyle (Stamullen)
Billy was the grandfather of Keith Gaynor, a St Pats and Meath underage star.

Andy McCormack (Julianstown)
Andy was the uncle of Myra Flaherty, the underage secretary and assistant club secretary for St Pat's. Andy's son Pat hurled with the Stamullen based club

Gus O Loughlin (Wicklow)
Gus was the father of Kevin O' Loughlin, the St Pats club chairperson
(All supplied by St. Patricks GAA)

Kate Pender (Kildare/Enfield)
Kate was originally from neighbouring Kildare. She was closely associated with training Enfield camogie teams in the late 1970s.

Michael Mulvihill (Kerry/Enfield)
Michael was a native of Kerry and was heavily involved with Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann. He reared a large family and one of his sons Eamon was an outstanding underage footballer who won a Leinster minor football medal in 1972. Michael’s grandsons Eamon and Sean both play underage with Na Fianna

James Gilsenan (Killyon)
James was a former player with the Killyon club. His son JJ is a present player

Lettie O'Hara (nee Keegan) - (Killyon)
Letties family are heavily involved in the Killyon club. Her brother Barney Keegan was a former player

Betty Ward ( Killyon)
Betty was an aunt of Thomas and Michael G. Ward, both former players with Killyon

Ita Carberry (nee Reilly ) - (Killyon)
Ita's nephews Joseph, Enda and Louis Quirke hurled with Killyon

Johanna and Francis Leacy (Kildare/Killyon)
It was a very sad year for former Killyon star and very active club member Noel Leacy, with the passing of both his mother and brother

Tommy Raleigh and Olive Connolly (Killyon)
A name synonymous with hurling along this part of the Meath-Westmeath border. Tommy was a former player and a huge supporter of Killyon. His daughter Olive Connolly from the Hill of Down also passed away this year. Olive’s son Eoin Connolly was a vital part of the Clonard squad that went to the 2006 Meath Junior B football decider
(All supplied by Killyon HC)

Mary Perry (Ballivor/Boardsmill)
Mary was a native of Coolronan, Ballivor and with her late husband Paddy moved to the Boardsmill area in the 1950s. Her sons Dessie, David and Noel played for the ‘Mill with David and Noel winning senior hurling championships. Both were excellent hurlers for Meath over a number of years in the 1970’s and 80’s. Mary’s daughters, Phyllis, Geraldine and Noreen played camogie with Boardsmill. Noreen won a number of championships and also played for the county. A staunch and loyal supporter of Boardsmill GAA, Mary had a pleasant personality and a good sense of fun and was fond of telling stories. She will be missed by the entire community.

Charles Boyle (Meath Hill)
Charles played with a number of teams in the area, including Meath Hill, Brian Borus and the North Meath Rangers. An avid supporter of both Meath Hill and Meath teams, he was Honourary President of Meath Hill at the time of his death. Charles’ nephews, Sean, Tony and the late Seamus Boyle all played for Meath Hill. The tradition is maintained with Sean’s sons, Donnacha and Tadgh and Seamus’ sons Paudge and Emmett all wearing the blue jersey.

John Devine (Rathkenny)
John’s son Peter was an outstanding footballer with the Rathkenny club and won a Leinster minor football medal with Meath in 1977.

Tommy Guirke (Moylagh)
Tommy was a member of a family who have provided the GAA and the Moylagh club with tremendous service. His father Patrick was a founder member of the club and his brothers Michael, John, Oliver, Eamon, Willie and Patsy all pulled on the green jersey. Likewise, his sisters Cathy and Margaret played with the Moylagh ladies. Tommy, who lined out with the parish side Oldcastle at underage level had the distinction of running four Dublin City Marathons.

Grainne Keague (Castlepollard/Clonee/Mullingar)
Grainne, who hailed from Castlepollard in County Westmeath was the wife of popular former St. Pauls player Tom Keague. Tom, who played for Meath, his father and his brothers are heavily connected with the Clonee-based club.

Pat Smith (Oldcastle)
Pat was a President of the Oldcastle club and his son Peter was a former player.

Kathleen Husband (Oldcastle)
Nee Nally - Kathleen’s son Gerard played with Oldcastle.

Tom Kelly (Rathmolyon)
Tom was the father of Mary Cole and his grandsons Michael (a county player for a long number of years) Gary and Niall are all star players with the Rathmolyon club. At the end of October the south Meath club bridged a 10-year gap when winning the senior hurling championship. Michael Cole at centre-field and scorer of ten points was not alone voted Man of the Match, but also captained his team to glory. Niall lined out at left-half-back, while centre-half-forward Gary hit 1-1.

Marie Farrell (Rathmolyon)
Marie was the mother of Ter Farrell, a former player, and current stars Sean and Paddy Farrell.

Oliver Tallon (Slane)
Oliver was the father of Mick and Bobby Tallon. Mick, a former player, is now Chairman of the juvenile section of the club. Bobby was also a former player and is Vice-Chairman of Slane GFC.

Bernadette Carolan (Seneschalstown)
Bernadette’s husband Sean was a former player with the Seneschalstown club. Their son Edward was an underage star. A daughter Sally Anne was a regular with the Seneschalstown ladies XV, while Bernadette’s granddaughter Amy plays under 16.
Olive Dixon (Castletown/Seneschalstown)
Olive was from Castletown and a sister of the famous Clarke footballing brothers. Her son Gordon played with Seneschalstown.
Patrick O’Brien (Seneschalstown/England)
Patrick, who emigrated to England, was a brother of well-known former Seneschalstown player, referee and official Joe O’Brien. Another brother Kit also lined out with the Furze club. Patrick’s nephew Paddy O’Brien was a star performer for Seneschalstown seniors in recent times.

Des Brennan (Seneschalstown)
Des was a brother of Mr. Seneschalstown - Conor Brennan who sadly passed away at the end of 2005.
Mick Farrell (Seneschalstown)
Mick was the last surviving member of the great Seneschalstown team that gained Meath junior championship honours in 1936. His son Jim maintained the family tradition and this fine left-footed defender was a fixture in the Seneschalstown full-back line for years of not too recent vintage. Jim also wore the county underage jersey at all levels.

Bernard Smyth (Dunboyne) - An Appreciation
There was widespread shock and sadness in Dunboyne and much further afield at the sudden and untimely passing of Bernard (Ben) Smyth.
The only son of 1949 All Ireland winning captain Brian and Mairead Smyth, he showed great potential as a hurler and a footballer at a very young age and graduated to playing at adult level with great ease.
With the county hurlers, he won underage medals at U-16, Minor and U-21 as well as honours at U-12, U-14 and U-16 with the Club and gained an U-17 medal in football
As a result, it wasn't long before he was selected for the county senior hurling side and he received the ultimate acclamation when being named Meath Hurler of the Year in 1981 before captaining his club to win the IHC the following year, the first of three collected in the grade during a distinguished playing career.
Bernard was also a very useful footballer, usually as a defender. Besides playing for Dunboyne at all underage and junior level, he wore the Meath minor football jersey in the Leinster championship.
When his playing days ended, he maintained a great interest in hurling and acted as a selector with many teams. He was heavily involved when Dunboyne won the Div. 2 HC in 2001 and he also did great work with many Meath underage hurling teams, of which his son Niall formed an integral part.
The esteem in which Ben was held was demonstrated with the huge turnout at the removal and funeral, when members of Dunboyne and Meath hurling teams formed a guard of honour.
Hurling in Dunboyne and throughout the county has lost a great friend and servant, but one whose many fine contributions will never be forgotten.
Sincere sympathy is extended to his parents, Brian and Mairead, wife Carol, children Niall and Orla, sisters Attracta and Dympna, other relatives and many friends.
Brendan Boylan and Pat Kelly
St Peter's GAA Club, Dunboyne

Sean Grace (Kells/England)
Sean, who emigrated to England was the brother of Michael Grace who, as a 19-year-old and operating from midfield, was voted Man of the Match in the All-Ireland senior football final of 1954. Meath beat Kerry.

Marguerite Davis (Garlow Cross)
Maguerite’s sons Tommy, Richie and Tony all played with Walterstown.

Eugene Egleston (Navan)
Eugene was the brother of the much respected Willie ‘Liam’ Egleston the former county secretary.

Margaret McDermott (Kilmoon)
Margaret was the wife of Paddy McDermott who played with the Young Irelands team which won the Meath junior championship in 1947. She was a sister-in-law of the man in the cap’ the great Peter McDermott.

Mary and Michael Devine (Garlow Cross)
Mary lived to the grand old age of 103 and featured regularly in local papers and magazines in recent years. Nee Boyle from Kilmessan, her son Michael (Mickey) died in early November. Mickey and his brothers Noel and Ultan were excellent hurlers with the old Dowdstown club. Noel played in goals for the Meath minor hurlers.

Jack Gaffney (Johnstown)
Jack’s family have close associations with the Walterstown club.

Matt Fox (Kells)
It is with regret that we record the death of Matt Fox, Market Street, Kells which occurred during the last year.
Matt was born just outside Kells in 1925 and in his youth he developed a love of hurling and football. This was something he never lost and which, he in turn passed on to his own family.
He was a man of strong principles about the important things in life, be it family, religion or business, and these he would defend against all odds. His many charitable deeds went unrecorded as that was how he wanted it. With his brothers Jim and Jack he built up a very successful electrical business.
Matt will be sadly missed, not only by his family, but also by the many friends he had in pitch and putt and golfing circles, and the community in general.

Mary Allen (Rathkenny)
Mary Allen who was 93 was the mother of County Secretary Barney Allen and came from a strong GAA family. Originally Timmons from Rochestown, Mary was the second eldest of a family of 10 and was predeceased by her husband Frank in 1981. She had a keen interest in the GAA throughout her life and her brothers Dick, Johnny and Tommy played with the local club for many years. As well as Barney, her other son Marty also played with Rathkenny while her late husband was a member of the panel that won the IFC title in 1934. Her daughter Kitty lives in England and she is also survived by her sisters Brigie Timmons and Lily Lawlor.

Tommy Timmons (Delvin)
From Rochestown in the parish of Rathkenny, Tommy died less than three months following the death of his sister Mary Allen. He was aged 92 and had been living in Delvin, Co Westmeath for many years. He was a staunch supporter of the Meath football team and lined out with Rathkenny in his younger days. A brilliant footballer in his day he played at wing back on the Rathkenny team that won the intermediate crown in 1934. He later played with Seneschalstown and was recognised by the club with the Hall of Fame award some years ago. Tommy was predeceased by his wife Nellie in 2004 while a son Brother Larry Timmons was killed in 1998 while serving on the missions in Kenya. Tommy is survived by sons, Tom (Delvin) and Camillus (Athboy), daughters Mary (Coralstown), Margaret (Birmingham), Collette (Dublin), Sheila (Delvin), Gemma (Birmingham), Lily (Dublin).

Peter Crosbie (Rathkenny)
Pete was synonymous with underage football in Rathkenny and it was ironic that on the day of his burial a number of the players that he brought up through the ranks helped Rathkenny win the intermediate title for the first time in 72 years. Aged 77, he was a former vice-chairman of the Meath Juvenile Board and in his younger days was an outstanding footballer, winning a Meath SFC with North Meath in 1950. Originally from Kilmainhamwood, Pete was associated with the Rathkenny club at committee level for a long number of years. He attended games until a short time before his death and was looking forward to the intermediate final, but sadly died two days before the game. He was predeceased by his wife Kitty (nee Gore) in 1990 and his son Brendan in 1997. He is survived by his sister Rose Meehan (Navan), daughter Patricia Darby (Boardsmill), and sons John, Peter and Thomas, all Rathkenny.

Curraha condolences
The Curraha club would like to pass on condolences to relatives of the following deceased.
Tommy Morgan, who played on the 1958 team. His nephew Stephen is the current intermediate captain.
Mrs. Rooney of Cavanhill. Her family has a long-association with the club. Her sons and grandsons played with the club at various times.
Mrs. Laycock. Her family are members of the club.
Patricia Mulvany who died in Dublin. She was the sister of popular former chairman Packie Mulvany.
Ina Coyle, who was the mother of Raymond Coyle of Largo Foods, our main sponsor.
Mrs. Foster. Philip of the Snail Box and Silver Tankard is also one of our main sponsors.
Mrs. Sheila Donegan of Kilbrew. Her family are supporters of the club.
Ann Canning. Her family are also supporters of the club.
We would also like to express our sympathy to committee member and delegate to the county board Paddy Fehilly on the death of his mother-in-law in Tipperary.

Robert Sheehy (Hayestown)
Robert lived to the grand old age of 93. His sons Pat, Desmond and Sean all played for Seneschalstown with Sean a fine corner or full-back at senior level for years. His grandsons Darren and Patrick also played underage with the Furze, while a granddaughter, Marian Sheehy is an excellent underage footballer with the county.

Kevin Victory (Donore/Holland)
Kevin died in Holland and was part of a family long-associated with GAA affairs in the area. His brother Donal was a former player and active official. Kevin’s nephews, Eamon, Kevin and Donal all gave great service to the St. Mary’s club, while another nephew Robert still plays.

Richard Kearns (Beauparc)
Sadly in last year’s issue we wrote about the death of Richard’s brother Larry who was a huge driving force behind the GAA in Slane. And Richard was a big GAA man in his own right. A bad injury in his younger days curtailed his playing career, but Richard was the leading light behind the old Meath Inter-Firms football competitions when they were at their strongest back in the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s. A son Terry played underage with Seneschalstown, while another well-known brother was Sean ‘Crusher’ Kearns.

Willie Flood (Lougher)
Willie was a star player with the old Lougher club who joined with Donore to form the present St. Mary’s unit

Christy Lenehan (Lougher)
Christy was a committee member of the now defunct Lougher club. Indeed, the Lougher team played on land owned by Christy. He was an uncle of former Meath and Walterstown stars Niall and Frank O’Sullivan.

Daniel Brady (Kilskyre/Dublin)
Danny went by the nickname ‘Cookie’. Although moving to Dublin he remained a huge follower of all Meath teams. Danny was a brother of popular Fianna Fail TD Johnny Brady who, prior to going into politics was heavily involved in Kilskyre and Meath hurling.

Con O’Sullivan (Kilkenny/Walterstown)
Con was an accomplished young hurler when he arrived in Fairlands, Walterstown from Danesfort, Co. Kilkenny in the 1950s. He was heavily involved with Walterstown GFC for many years, acting as a team selector and later President of the club. Indeed, the Blacks spent many years playing in a field provided by Con before the club developed their new grounds and clubroom facilities. His sons, Niall and Frank played at every grade of football for the Royal County and were key players on the rise of the great Walterstown team of the late 1970s, early ‘80s. Con and his family travelled the length and breadth of the country in support of his adopted club and county. He sadly passed away on December 4th, 2005 at the age of 78.

John Swan (Skryne/Dublin)
A former player, John was captain of the Skryne team that won the Meath junior championship in 1967. His nephew Alan Swan played with the Skryne club up until last year. John’s brother Frank Swan is one of the sponsors of the Skryne club.

Dolores (Dodo) Flanagan (Navan)
(nee Kelly) from Flower Hill, Navan
Dolores’ sons Brian and Martin both played for Simonstown and her grandsons continue the tradition.

Thomas Coyne (Roscommon/Rathmolyon)
Tom was originally from Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. He was the father of former Meath and Summerhill star Martin Coyne.

Joseph Vahey (Mayo/Martry)
Joseph was a native of Mayo, but the family on moving to Meath became involved with the old Martry club.

George McDermott (Navan)
George was well-known in the building trade. His sons played with both O’Mahonys and Simonstown. One of these, Colm McDermott has given tremendous service to Simonstown for nearly 30 years. A grandson, Josh McDermott from Wolfe Tones, who is also the grandson of Hughie Lynch (one of the Meath 1939 heroes) lined out with the Meath under 15 team in 2006.

Paddy Hopkins (Kells)
From one of the oldest and respected families in Kells. Paddy was President and Trustee of Kells Handball club. His father, also Paddy, was Chairman of the now defunct Kells GAA District Board for years and was a very respected GAA official.

Oliver Gartland (Kilberry/England)
Oliver lived in England and was a brother of former Meath minor board chairman and Wolfe Tones officer Benny Gartland.