Monaghan Obituaries 2006

Sean Carroll (Tyholland)
Sean was a very popular, well respected and valued member of his local community. A terrific fundraiser for Tyholland, he acted as a committee member and assistant treasurer of the club

Julia Lennon (Latton)
Julia was an outstanding camogie player in her younger days. Her husband Eddie was a member of the 1930 championship winning team, while her brother Hughie was one of Monaghan’s all time greats. Her sons, Ned and John also gave outstanding service to the O’Raghallaighs and the tradition is carried on in the form of grandson Edmond, a star for both club and county

Maura McCarron (Monaghan)
Maura is the mother of former Harps star Seamus McCarron

Francie McMahon (Killanny)
Francis was one of the best known and liked characters in south Monaghan. Aged only 47 years, he played with his native Killanny and later acted as a very competent referee. He officiated at all levels, club and county. Undoubtedly the highlight of his career was his appointment to take charge of the 1996 senior county decider. Francie also acted as a very dedicated umpire for Pat McEnaney for a long number of year. At his removal former referees and Killanny club members formed a guard of honour

Kathleen Courtney (Inniskeen)
Kathleen’s family has been synonymous with Inniskeen Grattans for generations

Patrick O’Rourke (Carrickmacross)
Patrick was a well known and respected member of the local community. In his younger days he played football with his native Killanny

Packie Farnan (Cremartin/Manchester)
Packie was a member of the 1956 Junior double winning team and the 1957 Ward Cup winning side. Just prior to his death Packie was a recipient of the Cremartin club’s Hall of Fame award. Sadly, owing to his ill health Packie was unable to attend and the trophy was accepted on his behalf by his brother Seamus. He was well known in the construction business around the Manchester area and after first emigrating to the north of England city in 1957, became involved with the Oisins club. At his funeral there were glowing tributes paid to the Lisnagrieve man with former county chairman Gary Carville speaking on behalf of the Cremartin club. Guards of honour were formed by the Oisins club, Lancashire County Board and by the Monaghan Association. Almost 50 years in the UK but Packie continually returned to his beloved Lisnagrieve and it was through the former Cremartin star that Big Tom wrote and recorded the song, ‘My Own Lisnagrieve’ and the story concerning the emigrants to England during the 1950s and 60s

Conor McKenna (Clones)
Conor may also be fondly remembered for his involvement with Monaghan rugby club but he was an avid follower of the GAA. He played underage for his native Clones and later on at senior level. In 1994 Conor was voted Clones Senior B Player of the Year

Noel Tumelty (Magheracloone)
Noel was a great character around his area of south Monaghan. He was a huge GAA fan and a staunch supporter of Magheracloone. Noel’s son Feargal was a member of the 2006 Mitchells under 14 team

Jimmy McMahon (Magherarney)
A very well respected person in the area, Jimmy was a staunch Eire Og supporter. He was a star footballer with the Smithboro club in his youth and was one of the founding members of the Eire Og unit

Peter Holland (Knockatallon/Clones)
Peter was a man of many talents and was heavily involved in local affairs. He often fondly remembered his youth when he played football in Clones and Aghadrumsee. Peter was an avid GAA fan and rarely missed a game at St. Tiernach’s Park

William Hannon (Castleblayney/England)
Affectionately known as Willie, the Annyart man played for Oram and Blayney Faughs in his younger days. Emigrating to Wolverhampton in the English midlands, Willie made regular trips home

Kay O’Harte (Clones)
Nee Cassidy from Killycarnan, Scotstown, Kay was a devoted wife and mother. She was a very successful business woman and along with her husband Tommy, formed the very popular Harte Peat Ltd. The company has grown strongly over the years and has won various awards, including such as the Forbairt Company of the Month and the DHL Export Award to name a few. Kay was also a very accomplished accordion player and her company, Harte Peat and Monaghan GAA have enjoyed a tremendous sponsorship partnership over the years

Francie McGuirk (Tyholland)
Francie served the club in every capacity from player to manager. Over the years he was a vital part of numerous committees, was a chief fundraiser and especially when it came to the clubs lotto. Francie attended every match that was humanly possible, from juvenile through to senior. His shop was the heartbeat of the parish every Sunday morning when many a team would be picked in anticipation of the match later that afternoon. He will be missed by many

Terry McGuirk (Tyholland/Canada)
Terry’s death was less than a month after the passing of his brother. He emigrated to Canada in 1954 and worked for 36 years with the Winnipeg Fire Department. Terry was a regular goalkeeper with Tyholland before his departure

John Feeney (Ballybay)
John suffered from ill health for all of 28 years. His great love was the GAA and his knowledge of records, results and scorers was amazing. For many years John researched and contributed articles on statistics to the Ulster championship programmes. He met many of the great GAA players and personalities over the years and was at ease in any company. However, the single feat that John was most proud of was being a member of the Pearse Brothers under 12 team that won the Coyle Cup in 1975, although he only managed to start in one game, the opposition was Smithboro. He was also very proud of being on the winning School League combination for four consecutive years. The local Pearse Brothers formed a guard of honour at the arrival of his remains

John King (Corduff)
The King family have a long association with the south Monaghan unit. John played for Corduff and was the father of team captain Gareth, Louis and Sean, stalwarts with the club. As a mark of respect, all Corduff activities were suspended for that sad weekend and a minutes silence was observed at the Sean McDermotts championship game

Seamus Moen (Clontibret)
Seamus was the head of a great Clontibret GAA family. His three sons, Declan, Damien and Ambrose all played with the O’Neills club. Declan also helped out in team management while Damien has been a key manager at underage and was joint manager of the senior team during 2006. A minutes silence was observed before the senior championship clash with Magheracloone. The players, along with club officers and members, formed a guard of honour at O’Neill Park for the funeral procession to nearby St. Marys

Jimmy O’Leary (Aghabog/Monaghan)
Jimmy played with the Aghabog club in the late 1950s. A very popular person, he was a recipient of a presentation at last year’s 50th anniversary of the formation of the Aghabog club in 1955. Jimmy is survived by his wife Nancy, 17 children, 94 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren

Pete Conlon (Magheracloone)
From the Priests Cross area, Pete was an avid Mitchells fan and maintained a great interest in the fortunes of the club. Prior to the coming together of Magheracloone, Pete lined out for a team in his immediate vicinity. Later he was honoured with the Hall of Fame award from the Mitchells, an honour which he treasured

Mary Maher (Monaghan)
Nee Mulligan, Mary hailed from Smithboro and had a huge interest in GAA affairs

Charlie Byrne (Magheracloone)
Charlie, who was born in Scotland, was a huge GAA fan and wore the Magheracloone jersey with pride in his younger days.
Scotstown club offers its condolences to the following:

Kieran McKenna
A former juvenile player with the club

Lizzie McAleer
Lizzie’s son Jim was a former player while her grandson Christopher McAleer keeps the family tradition alive

Brian McKenna
Brian’s son Patrick was a former player with the club. His grandsons currently play

Paddy McArdle
It is with great sadness that we learned of the death of Paddy McArdle in New York. Paddy was a founder member of the club, and donned the Toome jersey before moving to America. Paddy always retained his links with the area, and was awarded the club's Hall of Fame award. To his wife Florrie, sons, daughters, grandchildren, sisters, nephews, nieces and extended family we offer our deepest sympathies.
Toome G.A.A

Jimmie Sweeney
The sincere sympathy of the club is extended to the family, relatives and friends of the late Jimmie Sweeney, Carrigans, Emyvale. Jimmie was on our panel of players during the 'sixties, always ready and willing to step into the breach when called upon. It was a very unproductive period in Emyvale's football history, but honours eventually came Jimmie's way when, in the twilight of his playing career, he had probably his greatest honour when winning a Jimmie Whan Cup medal in 1968. He played at corner forward on the Emyvale team that defeated Blackwatertown in the Final of the Madden, Co. Armagh, Tournament. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam uasal.
Emyvale G.A.A

Jimmy McCahey
The club lost one of its most loyal and long-serving members with the death of Jimmy McCahey, Tonnaneave. He served the club firstly as a player. When his playing days were over he moved to the administration side of the club and served for many years as club secretary. Jimmy was meticulous in carrying out his duties and he ensured that all was in order with the club affairs. Jimmy continued to serve the club for many years and had his achievements recognised when he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998. He was very proud of the club's recent achievements and took a keen interest in the exploits of all the club teams. His record of service is equal to that of any other member and his son, P.J who is the current secretary of the club, is now carrying on his tradition of serving.
The club extends its sympathies to Jimmy's wife Bridget, to his sons and daughters and to his extended family. May he rest in peace.
Magheraclone Mitchells G.F.C

Brian O'Neill, Gary McCormack, Ciaran Hagan, Dermot Thornton and John McQuillan.
It was with heartfelt sorrow and sadness that our club and community said farewell at funerals to five young friends of ours, Brian O'Neill, Gary McCormack, Ciaran Hagan, Dermot Thornton and John McQuillan. A tragic accident that got national headlines but it was in our own small community where it was felt the most. They were known to us all, characters in their own right and their presence amongst us will be greatly missed. It is however in their homes and with their families and friends that they will be missed most. We offer our deepest sympathy to the Thornton, Hagan, O'Neill, McCormack and McQuillan families at this time.
The club would like to thank all those who helped in any way with funeral arrangements, current players, former players and members who formed guards of honour. Thanks to those who organised and supervised the car parks, the church ushers, the ladies who provided and helped with refreshments in our complex. A special word of appreciation to our priests Fr Coffey and Fr McCluskey for their help and encouragement. Ar Dheis de go raibh nanamacha.
Sean McDermots G.F.C

Patsy Duffy
People of the area and further afield were shocked and saddened by the death of Patsy Duffy, Derryolam. Patsy was a very active and hard working member of the Corduff Gaels Committee. To his wife Helen, sons Liam, Thomas and Francis, daughter Bernie and wider family circle we extend sincere sympathy on their loss. Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam.
Corduff G.A.A

Mervyn McCooey
The late Mervyn McCooey, aged 84, will be remembered by football followers with high regard in Donaghmoyne and throughout Monaghan county.
The affable Mervyn was the eldest of a family of four brothers which have provided distinguished service to the GAA on the field of play for Donaghmoyne Fontenoys, Monaghan, and in the Council Chambers over the years. Mervyn won the following medals: 2 senior championship; 1 junior championship; 4 Owen Ward Cup; and 2 Hackett Cup - over a long athletic period of 18 years.
He was a stalwart player for several years on the Monaghan senior county side and earned an All-Ireland junior award as referee in 1952. He was also a noted actor with Broomfield Dramatic Group.
A farmer by designation, he was noted for his pleasant and helpful manner and he will be greatly missed by his beloved wife, Etta, with whom he recently celebrated his 55th wedding anniversary, and by his fine family of six sons, three daughters, and a multitude of friends. He was a true nature's gentleman - F.O'D

Joe Smyth
The club lost another of its stalwarts with the passing of Joe Smyth. Joe was an extremely well known and popular figure throughout the county and further afield. He played for Clontibret for over twenty years and had a lengthy spell with a good Monaghan team in the 1950s. In a great club career during which his sportsmanship was widely commented upon he won eight senior championship medals. He kept himself in peak condition at all times and this was a big factor in his lengthy playing career.
Joe always retained his interest in the club and along with his late brother Eamon would have attended most of the club games over the years.
The club extends its sympathy to the Smyth family and family circle. There was a great turn out of members and players for the guard of honour at the removal.
Clontibret GAA

Francie Connolly
It was with deep sadness that the parish of Tyholland learned of the passing of Francie after a long illness, an illness he fought bravely and with great dignity. Outside of his family life Tyholland GFC was one of his great interests and although he never played football he always helped out in any other role that he could. He served on many a committee and indeed acted as assistant Treasurer for many years. Apart from being one of the club’s major Slotto sellers from its inception he also helped out in any other fund raising projects that took place. As anyone who had the pleasure of Frank’s company will know he had a fabulous sense of humour and you were guaranteed to laugh at least once with him, no matter for how short a period you spent with him. It was this great characteristic that made him shine in his other great love, that of drama. Although serious acting was no bother to him, it was in comedies that he really shone and indeed could come up with his own one liners in a second if the need arose. Francie performed in plays all over the county over the years as well as in the Tyholland dramatic society, which he helped out in any capacity when required. His huge popularity couldn't have been more evident than by the crowd that turned up at his wake and his funeral as the church was filled to capacity and beyond with family and friends who came to say goodbyes. From not only the football club but from the parish of Tyholland we pass on to his wife Sue and family our deepest condolences.
Tyholland GFC

Barney Tumelty
It was with great sadness that Cill Eanna Club learned of the passing of one of our great supporters and Honourary President Barney Tumelty. Even though his first love would be the Magheracloone Mitchells, Barney played a pivitol role in the purchase of and development of Pairc Eanna and was instrumental in the fundraising for the completion of the field. He donated the Barney Tumelty Cup for which there was a very successful tournament run for years. To his wife Brenda, his sons Brian and John we offer our sincere condolences. May he rest in peace.
Cill Eanna Club

Brendan O'Reilly
It is with great and profound sadness that we reflect back upon the untimely death of Brendan O'Reilly. News of Brendan's death through a freak accident while holidaying in Spain reached us on Sunday July 30th, 2006 and has covered us in a blanket of shock and sorrow ever since. The crowds who passed through the house, and attended his funeral mass, and indeed stewarded and provided guards of honour, are testament to his popularity and standing.
Brendan was very proud of who he was and where he came from. From the early days of building huts in Annalitten with his brother Damien and his cousin Keith, to his love of the GAA, which he shared with his father PJ, the tight bond that he had with his family was there for all to see. He was proud to be involved in the family business, and he took great pride in pulling on the red jersey of Toome.
Brendan, or Benny as he was known to his friends, always wanted to make the most out of life. Whether hurrying out of the factory with a van-load of eggs, flying into the next tackle on the football field, or simply looking forward to having the craic with his friends, he demonstrated a love of the simple things in life, and sought to enjoy them as best he could.
Brendan, was a regular on the Toome senior team, and a staunch supporter of all the club’s activities. Whether it was helping his father PJ, and uncle Michael to tend to the playing field, or any other task, Brendan's willingness to lend a helping hand could always be relied upon. On the field he particularly relished the tougher encounters, and many's the opposing forward came to feel his full force in a tackle, as I'm sure many opponents, and indeed the odd team-mate would testify.
His dry wit, loyalty and friendship will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. There is no doubt that all who came into contact with him had their lives enriched by his honesty, sincerity and his ability to recognise the humour in any situation. To his parents, PJ and Kay, his brother Damien and the O'Reilly and Shiels families, we can only offer our most heartfelt sympathies. Ar dheis dhia go raibh a anam.
Toome GAA

Kevin Duffy, Ballybay
Much regret and a deep sense of sadness and loss has been occasioned by the untimely death in tragic circumstances of Kevin Duffy, Market House, Brae.
Kevin who would have been 59 in April 2007, died at his residence in the early hours of Tuesday 14th February, 2006. Kevin was a highly respected and popular member of our community and his passing marks a very sad time for his wife and family and the numerous friends he made during his relatively short life.
Kevin was such a familiar figure in our community it's hard to imagine that the won't be around anymore. You would usually see him everyday either standing having a chat with his neighbour Annie McGlone, driving his red van to do a job for someone, strolling up the street to visit the local bookies or help someone out with a problem, standing in his doorway having a cup of tea on a sunny Sunday morning or helping Patricia in with the shopping.
He had a very laid back and easy going attitude to life except maybe when it came to football!
As a teenager Kevin spent some time in Northampton working and playing football. He played along with the Sullivan brothers and Joe Carroll for the Sons of Erin. Kevin would have remained in Northampton but for a chance meeting on a visit home with a young lady from Castleblayney - yes Castleblayney!! Kevin and Patricia met in the Embassy ballroom on Christmas night 1966 and he eventually persuaded her to marry him and move to Ballybay.
Kevin worked as a plumber and electrician all his lifetime and as a young man served his time with John McGrath. He enjoyed his work and had a real interest in what he was doing. Following his time with John McGrath, Kevin worked for a short period on his own before going to work in M.1. Metals in the mid eighties. There he was responsible for all the general maintenance in the factory and was noted for being particular when carrying out repair work. His colleagues have fond memories of working with him and the fact that he never took himself or anyone else too seriously. When the factory closed in 2001 Kevin continued helping people with plumbing and electrical work and no job was too much trouble for him. He could be relied upon to help out in an emergency without any fuss and he did many good turns for people over the years without looking for anything in return. In fact he was in the process of building his dream home for himself and Patricia when he died. This too had to be done to perfection!
Kevin was a good all round sportsman but for many people he will he remembered for his lifetime involvement with the Ballybay Pearse Brothers GAA. As someone commented at the time of his death he wore his heart on his sleeve as far as Ballybay was concerned and this was certainly true as regards football. He was a talented and skillful footballer and served his hometown and the County with distinction on numerous occasions. He deservedly won numerous medals and trophies over the years with the Pearse Brothers and you could honestly write a book about his exploits with the team. His first win with Ballybay came in 1966 when they won the Minor Double - that year they won the Fr. McGuire Cup and the County Minor Championship.
Despite having an ankle injury Kevin played in midfield and it is widely believed that he was instrumental in the team recording such an historic victory. In 1969 playing in the wing three-quarter position he won a Senior Championship medal with Ballybay.
Kevin was also a skillful hurley player and demonstrated great speed and alacrity on the pitch. And when he was playing you, you let him swing away until he hit his target! He played right half back for the team when they won the Senior Hurling Championship and Kevin was extremely proud to be part of the winning team. Even when his playing days were over he remained committed to the Pearse Brothers and served as a selector and manager on numerous occasions. He was part of the management team when the minors won the Championship in 1999. He was always on hand to support and encourage younger players to take an interest in football. And in post match conversations it just might be all right for someone from Ballybay to make a critical comment about the fortunes of Ballybay but if you weren't from Ballybay you might get that look from Kevin and then it was time to move on!!
Another sport that Kevin enjoyed was badminton and he used to play in St. Patrick's Hall years ago. He had a natural talent for this game and won several trophies over the years. Patricia and Peadar Marron watched him play many a night.
Kevin was also a member of Ballybay Gun Club and along with his friends Jim O'Hanlon and Dermot Rutledge, enjoyed many an outing shooting for ducks and pheasants. At that time it was also legal to shoot fox and the friends would sell the hides and then treat their respective wives to a good night out. Kevin used to take his dogs Benji and Major on shooting outings and they would spend the day roaming around for ducks or pheasants - so much so that on the night of the hunt Benji would not come out of the house because Kevin had walked the feet of him all day. Kevin would blame it on the fact that Patricia had the dogs spoiled!!
Fishing was another pastime that Kevin enjoyed and this would raise a laugh with his friends, as Kevin didn't really like the water because he couldn't swim. When fishing on the lake he would warn them in no uncertain terms not to rock the boat. Despite this he caught a small shark on a holiday on Achill Island and he was very proud of his catch.
Greyhound and horse racing was another interest of Kevin's and he was a member of the Ballybay syndicate that owned Atha Beithe. He travelled with his friends to race meetings at Aintree, Listowel and Galway and always enjoyed the atmosphere and the bit of craic at the end of the day. Kevin actually spent the day before he died at the Leopardstown races with his friends Noel McCabe, Liam Smyth, Seamus Fitzpatrick, Peter McGuirk, Rory Fitzpatrick and John Toner.
In the late eighties Kevin was one of the founder members of the Lourdes Invalid Fund which has helped many people in the community who have suffered illness. As usual he helped out in a quiet way and wanted no thanks or praise for his efforts.
For his wife Patricia and daughters Linda and Laura he was rock solid and dependable. If something was wrong or if there was a problem he could fix it. They knew they could always rely on him. Their welfare and concerns were always of paramount importance to him. He was especially proud of his two daughters and their achievements. They were his pride and joy. Kevin's passing is a devastating loss for them but they have many happy memories to remember him by. Patricia and the girls recall the happy time they had on what was sadly to be their last Christmas together.
They spent Christmas and New Years at Laura's apartment in Dublin with her boyfriend Jeremy, his mother Jane and his two brothers Jono and Chris all from Kenya. Both families and their friends attended a gala ball in the Burlington hotel on New Year's Eve and Kevin danced the night away with all the ladies in his company! It is a memory that Patricia and the girls will cherish.
Kevin was a sociable, outgoing and colourful character who enjoyed life to the full. He was blessed with a lovely singing voice and on numerous occasions entertained locals and visitors alike with his vast repertoire of songs. He was good company and always down to earth. He was popular with young and old alike. He was very proud to be from Ballybay and even though he is no longer with us his memories will never be forgotten.
Kevin remains were brought home to his residence on Wednesday 15th February, 2006 and the exceptionally large number of callers reflected the high esteem that Kevin was held in by the community and the sadness felt by people at his passing. On the morning of his funeral people gathered in large numbers from Ballybay and all over the country to say farewell to this popular gentleman. His coffin was draped in the maroon and white colours of the Ballybay flag and was carried through the town in relays by a guard of honour of past and present players and members of Pearse Brothers. It was a dignified and fitting tribute to a gentleman who had given so much to the club and the town. As Kevin might have commented, Unreal-Eh!
His remains were received at St Patrick's Church by Fr. La Flynn and during the service his daughter Laura spoke movingly about the good and kind father that Kevin had been to her and Linda. His friends and fellow Pearse Brothers player Paul McCarthy also spoke about Kevin and the character that he was. Fr. La gave a lovely service, which uplifted everyone, and the choir of which Patricia is a member, sang some lovely hymns during the service. Following his funeral mass Kevin was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Kevin leaves to mourn his passing his beloved wife, Patricia, daughters Linda and Laura, his brother Gerry, sisters, Eileen, Marie, Kathleen and Nellie, his brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends, to all of whom deepest sympathy is extended.
May our dear friend Rest in Peace.

Sarah Flanagan, Annyalla
The death of Sarah Flanagan from Annagh, Annyalla, has left County Monaghan, and particularly the mid-county communities, bereft of one of its most abiding and charismatic personalities. Born in January 1915 Sarah was to experience adversity at an early age as her father died when she was only six months old. The resilience which her mother displayed in coping with such a setback was the hallmark of Sarah's own personality and this robust reaction to life's challenges typified the style of Sarah and her husband Gerard (who predeceased her eight years ago) in rearing a family of twelve children and suffering the loss of two daughters (Geraldine and Dorothy) in infancy.
Sarah Flanagan (nee Boylan), who was born in Tyranedon, Tullycorbett, married Gerard Flanagan in 1936 and for the next seventy years was central to everything that was positive and good in the townland of Annagh. As social commentators have well recorded, the thirties, forties and fifties were particularly lean years but her twelve children who survive her have no negative memories of such. Their father worked hard on the family farm, and Sarah cooked, baked, knitted and sewed, providing sustenance and security for their growing family. The Armagh border was but five miles away and a well-beaten path to Derrynoose with her basket of free-range eggs facilitated creative activities which helped supplement the family income.
The inner sanctum of her kitchen was Sarah's domain but she was equally adept at all of the outdoor activities associated with mixed farming-rearing hens, turkeys and pigs, feeding farmyard animals and working on the bog and in the fields. The knitting of Aran Sweaters was a constant nightly activity as deadlines had to be honoured for a Clones lady who was a punctual knitwear agent. In all those busy years, however, Sarah still had time to be a great support to her neighbours as the story of life with its births, marriages and deaths unfolded in this close knit community.
From our jottings thus far it, might be thought that the late Sarah Flanagan was very much tied to the home. Such was not the case. The youngest of three children, she was a loyal supporter of her footballing brothers Frank and Jack who joined Cremartin GFC when Sarah teamed up with the Shamrocks captain Gerard Flanagan. Sarah assumed responsibilities as wardrobe mistress for the club, making togs for the players when the need arose (which, indeed, was quite often!) but mainly, washing jerseys and socks. This happy support she gave for half a lifetime during which time she would see her husband and two sons line out on the same team with subsequent club service for her other sons and grandsons. And indeed camogie skirts received her attention too as her daughters assisted a very successful team in the seventies and eighties. Gerard Flanagan and her brother Jack had cycled to Mullingar when Monaghan played Galway in the 1938 All-Ireland semi-final and it was no surprise when she accompanied Jack Boylan on the Alan Clancy sponsored GAA trip to New York in the early seventies when she had the pleasure of meeting many of her American cousins for the first time.
If there is one word which defined Sarah Flanagan it is the word 'loyalty'. Dare anyone say a bad word about one of her own or, indeed, about Cremartin. The credentials of even the best referees would be questioned on the day that the club lost a match.
Her generosity to all her twenty seven grandchildren at Christmas makes her passing at this time all the more poignant and her loyalty to her daily rosary was heard in her prayerful utterances even when she had slipped away from knowing her loved ones. The Annyalla Church community can look back with fondness to the seventies when Sarah, as a member of a hardworking Church Renovation Committee, travelled the length and breadth of the country fundraising for the local St Michael's church.
It can be truly said that Sarah Flangan's loyalty was repaid with the guards of honour from the GAA, the Camogie Association and Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann and in the attendance at her concelebrated requiem mass by her godson Father John Flanagan, Canon Philip Connolly and the parish priest Rev. Paid McDonnell. It would be remiss not to mention the loyalty of Dr Michael O Gorman who attended Sarah for many years and the constant care of her family particularly over the last few months and weeks. The Flanagan families are deeply grateful to all who helped during their bereavement, especially to those who kept vigil during nights of the wake and to those who helped at the graveside.
Ar dheis De go raibh anam dilis Sarah.
Along with her grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, Sarah is mourned by her immediate family, Patsy (London), Seamus (London), Gerry (Cremartin), Fintan (Annagh), Pauline Rooney (Scotstown), Genevieve Hickey (Dublin), Connie McCarvil (New York), Caroline Thompson (Kildare), Emmett (Cremartin), Noel (Tipperary), Valerie (Letterkenny) and Declan (Scotch Corner).

Mickey McArdle, Ballybay
His many friends in Ballybay and surrounding areas were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Mickey "Scrub" McArdle, which occurred peacefully at his residence on Monday 17th April, 2006 after a long illness. His passing at the relatively young age of 58 is a very sad loss for his family and the many friends he made during his life-time.
Years ago, in common with many other young men from the area, Mickey spent various periods working on the Shetland Islands and there was always plenty of craic when he was around.
On his return how Mickey worked as a mechanic serving his term with Joe Traynor and John Dixon before setting up in his own garage. He had a natural talent for this work and spent many an hour building up his business. He was reliable and would get the job done on time with no fuss or panic. In the late eighties he decided to set up his own coal delivery service and he worked hard at this until ill health forced him to retire. He was a sociable and outgoing person who always had a friendly word for people when making deliveries. In his leisure time Scrub was noted for his commitment and involvement with the Ballybay GAA club both as a player and lifelong supporter. He played U16 football when Ballybay won the McNally Cup in 1962 and won many medals and trophies with the club over the years. In 1966 he captained Ballybay minors to the Minor double, winning the Fr Maguire Cup and the County Minor Championship. And recently to mark the fortieth anniversary of this historic win 'Scrub' and other members of the team were honoured at a re-union night in the Ballybay Inn on Sunday 26th March , 2006.
Despite his failing health Mickey stayed the course and had a most enjoyable night reminiscing with old friends. During the evening many tributes were paid to him and he was presented with a specially engraved Galway Crystal plate in recognition of his contribution to football in Ballybay. It was a lovely evening for his family to remember and his wife Phyllis was presented with a bouquet of flowers as a gesture of appreciation for all the work the family put in with the juvenile and minor teams. Mickey and Phyllis were regular faces at all the games that Ballybay played and would offer support in any way that they could.
With his passing our community has lost a real character who enjoyed life and who would never get too excited about anything. He was a member of a very close knit family and and the welfare and concerns of his wife and children were always of utmost importance to him. He was a regular visitor to his mother Kathleen and with his light step he would whistle as he approached the house to have the craic with her. And although he is no longer with them he has left them with many happy memories to remember him by.
He enjoyed socialising and got great pleasure in teasing people and if it had been anyone else you might have been insulted but because it was "Scrub" you let him away with it.
Mickey bore his illness with great dignity and courage and never indulged in self pity. He continued to live his life as best he could and at times gave comfort to those around him. He was lovingly cared for by his wife Phyllis and together they visited Lourdes on three occasions. These trips gave Mickey a deep sense of peace and comfort. The high regard in which he was held in the community and further afield was evidenced by the large number of callers to the family home following his passing. Everyone had their own memories of Mickey and saddened at his untimely passing.
His remains were removed from his residence on Wednesday 19th, April, 2006 and his coffin was draped in the maroon and white colours of the Ballybay flag which was carried in relays through the town by a guard of honour of past and present players and members of the Ballybay Pearse Brothers. They were joined at St Patricks Church by the students from Ballybay Community College. It was a dignified and fitting tribute to a dear member of our community. His remains were received at St Patricks Church by Fr. La Flynn and his Funeral Mass was concelebrated by Fr La and Fr Johnny Leahy who played with Mickey on the 1966 team. Following his funeral mass Mickey was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Mickey leaves to mourn his passing wife Phyllis, his sons Fergal and Mark, daughter Denise, his mother Kathleen, brothers Eamon, Paddy, Hugh, Francis and Owen, his sister Mary, brother in law, sister in law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends to all of whom deepest sympathy is extended.
May he rest in peace.

Maggie Joe McMahon, Emyvale
On Monday, 5th June, 2006, Emyvale lost one of its most endearing and most enduring personalities with the death of Mrs. M. J. McMahon of Main Street in the village, better known and loved by all and sundry simply as 'Maggie Joe'. 'Grand Matriarch' of the McMahon-Murphy dynasty, which has played such an integral part of Emyvale and its community for several decades past, Maggie Joe, in her 92nd year, had fallen into ill health some months back and, after a series of visits to hospitals and nursing homes, she finally passed to her eternal reward in the presence of her family and close friends. If ever a person will be sorely missed in Emyvale and by its people, it will surely be Maggie Joe McMahon.
Maggie Joe, last surviving member of the McKenna family of Rarutra, Emyvale first came to reside in the village in the late nineteen-thirties, when she shared a house with the then Miss Maureen Maguire NT, later Mrs Bennie Hackett, and since deceased. She was very mush involved in the dress-making business, and later still shared a house with her lifelong friend, the late Ms Annie Kelly, also of Main Street, who was also a talented dressmaker, and between them, they set up a very thriving dress-making business. Many, many women in the Emyvale area and from much further afield will tell you that they got their wedding dresses made by Maggie Joe and Annie.
A talented athlete in her young days, Maggie Joe became one of the leading figures in the Emyvale camogie team’s of the mid-thirties and won a county championship title with the village team circa 1934. Camogie was then the predominant field-game in north Monaghan, and Maggie Joe's reputation as a strong, forcefull midfielder became well known throughout the area. It was probably through her association with the GAA that she met her future husband, the late Peter McMahon, who played full-back for Emyvale football teams during the same period and who, by a unique twist, won his first Co Board honour, a Dr Ward Cup medal, with Tullycorbett in 1937, when rules were not as stringent as they are nowadays.
Maggie Joe and Peter enjoyed many years of happy married life in lower Main Street in the village and had three children - Marie, Peadar and Helena. Marie, a tireless worker on 'Daffodil Day' activities, is probably better known as Mrs Frank Murphy, and mother of the late lamented 'UIster Rose' Sinead Murphy, and also of well known former county goalkeeper, Glen Murphy, and current Emyvale star, Carl Murphy. She is very involved in Community activity and had played a very active role in all the developments. Peadar is the well-known chairperson of the 'Save Monaghan Hospital Committee' and the front runner in the fight to retain our county hospital. He is also a former chairman, team-manager and leading official with the Emyvale GAA Club, and currently teaches in St. Macartan's College, Monaghan, while his activities with the 'Lions Club' and many other organisations working for the betterment of our community, are well known. Helena, wife of John McManus, the only one not residing in the Emyvale area, is well known around Clones. She worked for many years as a hairdresser in Monaghan town before setting up her own business in Clones and is a very popular member of the community there. To describe Maggie Joe as the 'Grand Matriarch' of such an active prominent family of two generations, all with household names, would indeed be an understatement.
Besides her own family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Maggie Joe was the 'centre-piece' of the ladies of Emyvale's 'lower main street', a close knit group of neighbours renowned for their kindness to each other and generally regarded as 'one big happy family'. This group will surely miss her as she was 'the heart and soul' of them all, forever giving advice, coming to their aid and frequently 'keeping them on the straight and narrow', not in any aggressive fashion, but in a genuinely friendly and neighbourly way that is the true hallmark of a real Christian.
Maggie Joe was also a deeply religious person, and her attention to, and care for, the local 'Donagh Oratory', which was just next door to her, would certainly earn her golden wings when she enters her true Paradise in the next life. The priests of the parish, and the parish in general, are all deeply indebted to her for her constant attention to 'God's House', a task that she was delighted to be given when the Oratory was first opened by the late Fr. Barney McCarney CC in the early 'seventies. She attended Mass daily and, if necessary, she would 'thumb a lift' to Corracrin or Glennan to attend Mass.
During her lifetime Maggie Joe was also very involved in Community activity. She was a life long Pioneer and some years ago was awarded the Fr Cullen Medal to mark 60 years as a member of the PTAA. She was a member of the Apostolic Society and used her dressmaking talents to make vestments for Priests on the missions. She will be remembered for her work with Annie Kelly, Paddy O'Neill, Pat Farmer, Mrs. Forde, Mrs. McMeel, Josephine McAleavey and others making the teas at the Parish Sports each year and providing refreshments during socials, which were held in the Old Parochial Hall. She supported every effort to improve the locality and none more so than the Tidy Towns, as she maintained the area around her home on Main Street and encouraged others to keep the town tidy.
The summer seat outside her house was a focal point and she spent many hours sitting on her seat watching the world go by. Many a 'picnic' was held there with neighbours and family and the ills of the world were discussed and all the local news shared. She had a greeting for every passer-by and assisted many strangers who stopped for help. Her house had an open door and she loved to see people paying her a visit and receive a compulsory cup of tea.
She was a familiar figure skipping up and down to the local shop until she fell last November and broke her hip. She was taken to Drogheda Hospital and had pins inserted and was making a very good recovery when she fell and broke her other hip. Again she had pins inserted but the MRSA infected the wound and she was forced to spend nine weeks in Drogheda. On Tuesday, May 30th she was transferred to Mullinahinch Nursing Home in Monaghan, but her condition was now critical. The staff in Mullinahinch gave her excellent care and attention and she passed away peacefully on Monday afternoon, June 5th, 2006.
Maggie Joe's remains were taken to the home of her son, Peadar, on Monday evening, where huge crowds called to pay their respects. On Wednesday morning the funeral travelled to St. Patrick's Church, Corracrin and was followed by a cortege of immense proportions, representing every creed and class and showing the love and esteem in which she was held by all sections of the community. At St. Patrick's Church she was honoured by three Guards of Honour, representing the GAA Club, Emyvale Leisure Centre and the Pioneers. The remains were then received by Very Rev. Canon Sean Clerkin PP, who also celebrated the Requiem Mass, which was attended by an overflow congregation. Concelebrating the Mass with Canon Clerkin were Fr. Michael McKenna, Fr. John Skinnader, Fr. Billy Hughes and Fr. Dermot Harkin, with other priests in attendance.
During his homily Fr. Clerkin recalled many anecdotal incidents involving the late Maggie Joe and paid glowing tributes to her as a parishioner, exemplary neighbour and devoted sacristan for the Oratory. Her grandchildren and close friends were involved in all aspects of the Liturgy. Afterwards internment took place in the adjoining cemetery where she was laid to rest with her late husband, who died in 1994.
To her sorrowing son, daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, daughter-in-law, sons-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and wide circle of friends, the sincere sympathy of the entire community is extended in their sad loss.
Ar dheis De go raibh a h-anam uasal.

Francie McQuade, Clontibret
The death has taken place of Francie McQuade, one of Clontibret’s and indeed Monaghan's great footballing icons of the 50's and 60's. Francie passed away peacefully while out on his farm with his brother Packie doing the every day things he enjoyed since he quit the limelight of the football field more than thirty years ago.
"McQuade from the border neither weak nor wise
Came out to play football with the broad road boys"
It was the early fifties when Francie burst on to the Monaghan football scene coming into the great Clontibret team that won four championships in a row from 1949 to 1952. This was a settled team and difficult to break into with household names such as McKearney, Rice, Murray, Smyth and Clarke, but break into it he did and made one of the midfield berths his own from 1952 on, as well as playing with distinction in both the half back line and half forward line when called upon. Indeed Francie had the distinction of being called up for county duty before holding a staring place on the Clontibret starting fifteen. He won six senior medals with Clontibret in 51, 52, 55, 56, 58 and again ten years later in 1968, Owen Ward Cup medals in 54, 55, 57, 64 and 66 as well as Hackett Cup medals in 62 and 63. For a relatively small man Francie was a prolific fielder of the ball and his characteristic race to jump for the high ball was a feature of his game. He was known as the man with 'the twinkling feet' and the 'Rubber Man' who didn't know when to stay down such was his enthusiasm for the game. He played with distinction on Monaghan teams from the early fifties and was selected to play for Ulster at wing back but an injury prevented him taking his place.
When he retired from the game Francie devoted his life to work on the family farm with his beloved wife Kathleen and his brother Packie who will sorely miss him. He was also known to follow the hound and hare around the border hills. He is also survived by his brother Michael and sister Mary Alice being predeceased by his sister Bridget.
A Midley Rover has gone to his eternal reward, may the sod he trod so lightly on at the broad road rest gently on him.

Stella Feeney, Ballybay
The late Stella Feeney was born and spent her early years in Dublin City. Her family moved to Birr, Offaly, where Stella completed her education, before qualifying as a teacher in Carysfort and returning to teach in Birr and Roscrea, prior to her marriage in 1955.
On marriage, because of the then 'marriage ban', Stella taught temporarily in Kilkit, Shean and Rackwallace schools amongst others. On abolition of the ban in 1958, Stella was appointed principal of Drumfreehan N.S., and subsequently principal of Cornanure N.S., where she remained until the three rural schools in the parish were amalgamated with Ballybay Boys and Girls N.S. She remained a member of the staff of the boys school until her retirement in 1996. In the early eighties she took over the position of remedial teacher in the boys and girls schools as well as in Hall St. (Central) School. A dedicated and kindly teacher, she retained an interest in all her past pupils, and loved meeting them and hearing of their progress in later life.
In the early years she was a member of Birr drama group and on coming to Ballybay became a prominent member of the local Youth Club drama group, taking lead roles in many of their annual productions, and earning awards and commendations on the drama festival circuit. She was keenly interested in music and was an accomplished pianist.
Throughout the years she was devoted to the cause of the mentally handicapped, and devoted much of her time to organising fundraising functions for the Mentally Handicapped Association, as well as representing the Association at many levels.
She had a deep involvement with Ballybay Credit Union, and represented it at conferences all over Ireland. As secretary of the union, she was actively involved in the development of the new Credit Union offices in Main Street, and was justifiably proud of that involvement. She retired from the position in 1999 but up to her death kept in close contact with the Union officials. At her funeral, the cortege paused for a silent prayer outside the Union office, and a guard of honour of Union officials escorted the funeral to St. Patrick's Church.
At the church, players, officials and members of Ballybay Pearse Brothers of which her husband and family members were officials and players over the years, formed a guard of honour. The remains were received by Rt. Rev Monsignor McSorley who spoke of the contribution of Stella Feeney to the life of the parish for over fifty years.
The following Sunday, Very Rev. L Flynn P.P., celebrated the funeral mass and delivered a panegyric on the life of a dedicated teacher and mother. He also presided over the interment afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. During the mass, the church choir, of which Stella had been a member sang, while solo items were contributed by her niece, Breda Kenny, to her own accompaniment on the harp.
Mass readings were by Stella's brother Eamonn, daughter Rosemary and son Conor as well as by grandchildren Paul and Vincent.
Before Mass, Stella's eldest son, Michael, welcomed all those present and spoke fondly of the happy home that Stella had created and the values she had imparted over the years. The celebration of the Golden Jubilee of her wedding less than a year ago was a particularly happy occasion.
Stella is survived by her husband, Michael, who taught with her in the boys school up until his retirement in 1989, her family, Michael (Dublin), Vincent (Belfast), Rosemary (Maynooth), Barry (Maynooth), John (Maynooth), Stella (London) and Conor (Dublin) as well as by her brother Eamonn, sons in law, daughters in law, brother in law, sisters in law, nephews and nieces and grandchildren.
Ar dheis de go raibh a hanam dhilis.

Dessie McGovern (Ballybay)
Dessie was a brother of Drumhowan Club President Phil McGovern

Molly McGinnity (Drumhowan)
Molly was the mother of Drumhowan Youth Officer Francis McGinnity and the grandmother of players Stephen and Christopher McGinnity

Packie Ward (Cabra)
Packie was a former player with Drumhowan and was one of the people involved with the club’s formation

Eddie Markey (Drumhowan)
Eddie was a former player with the Drumhowan club and was the father of team manager Hughie Markey
All supplied by Drumhowan GFC

James Monaghan (Rahans)
James was a former player with the Corduff club and an uncle of current player Fran Monaghan

Joe Roarty (Latton)
Joe, who hailed from Donegal, was the local teacher and served as secretary of the Latton club
Magheracloone GFC wish to pass on their condolences to the families of the following:
Barney Tumelty, a former player; Benny Kerley, a former player; James Monaghan, a former player. His son Fergal is a current player. Tommy Carolan, a former player.

Frank O’Reilly (Toome)
Frank was involved with Scor teams from the club. His sons Sean and Colm play for Toome

Jimmy Kingham (Toome)
Jimmy, who died in early December 2006, was heavily involved in raising funds for the new football field in Toome

Phil Murray (Killeevan)
A noted golfer in later years, Phil was a star footballer with Killeevan Sarsfields in his younger days

Francie McElroy (Latton/Ballybay)
Francie hailed from Latton and after his marriage to Margaret moved to nearby Ballybay in the 1960s. Despite living in Ballybay, Francie always retained his links with Latton and this was especially evident where football was concerned. He followed Latton’s fortunes closely and his family and friends recall some animated discussions about their progress when compared to Ballybay. As a mark of respect, the Latton flag was placed on Francie’s coffin at his removal while both the Latton and Ballybay clubs formed a Guard of Honour

Mary Quigley (Currin)
Mary was the mother of Aidan Quigley, who acted as Monaghan County Chairman from 1993 to 1997. Her other sons Liam, Sean and Brian like Aidan, all played with the Currin club. They represented a family steeped in the GAA tradition, a trait handed down by their father and Mary’s late husband Mick Quigley. Mick was Vice Chairman of the Monaghan County Board from 1967 to 1972 and was hugely involved with Currin GFC

Edel Kierans (Castleblayney)
Edel was the daughter of well known Monaghan personality and former county team boss Tony Loughman. Her brother Declan was a splendid servant of Monaghan football for well over a decade. In her younger days, Edel played camogie with Castleblayney Faughs

Tommy Murphy (Castleblayney)
Tommy was the father of both Tommy and Francie Murphy, former players with the Oram club

Gerry Brady (Aghabog/Dublin)
Gerry Brady's football prowess first came to prominence while playing for the Christian Brothers school in Monaghan in his teenage years in the mid 1950s, where there were ringing endorsements of this young lad’s ability. This was music to the ears of a number of people in the Aghabog parish who were trying to get a team up and running at the time.
Gerry had the unique distinction of playing in a juvenile game and later lining out with the Aghabog Junior team on the same day in the famous "Ned's Meadow" in October 1955. An event that launched the club's bid to get back into competition after a seven year absence from Co Board competition. Ever since Gerry donned the green and white jersey 50 years ago, there has been an unbroken link with the Brady family of Racane to the present day.
While that team competed in competition in 1956 and 1957, the following year, 1958, the club was unable to field a team, with Gerry joining the Threemilehouse club. This was to be the pattern over the next decade or so as the numbers of players available rose and fell intermittently. No wonder we were grateful to Gerry for always bringing a friend or two down with him whenever Aghabog were playing, a fact that the G.A.A President Sean Kelly alluded to in his oration at Gerry's funeral Mass.
In 1959 the Aghabog Club was back in business with Gerry as Secretary, having transferred back from Threemilehouse. Gerry's playing career with his native Aghabog spanned a 21 year period from 1955 to 1976. Apart from a few prestigious tournament wins, Gerry's only Co. Board medal in that time was gained with Tyholland when they won the junior league in 1961. So it was not championship or league glory that made Gerry commute from Dublin in the 1960's and 70's but the love of playing the game, helping out his club and meeting up with his friends around Aghabog. Gerry never give less than 100% during those years and expected everyone else to do the same. It was a privilege to play alongside Gerry Brady and while the gap in his and our ability was huge, Gerry always encouraged those around him to give of their best.
During this period Gerry was coming to the notice of the Co. senior selectors, getting his place on the county team, but unfortunately Gerry broke the same leg in successive years 1961 and '62 which effectively ended his intercounty career.
While it is thirty years since Gerry last donned his club’s green and white jersey, A Gold Flake Tournament win in 1976, he probably felt it was time to let the fledgling club stand on its own two feet. With work commitments and family to rear, Gerry immersed himself with the Parnells Club as a player and administrator and later with Dublin Co. Board with great success. As his erstwhile legal colleague pointed out in his oration, guiding Parnells to two senior football championships as manager in the 1980's was undoubtedly the highlight in football terms in Gerry's career. As Dublin Co. Board delegate to the Leinster Council he relished the cut and thrust of debate at these meetings. Held in the highest regard by the Croke Park authorities in his capacity as legal advisor, Gerry was instrumental in getting the licensing legislation updated that enabled Croke Park to avail of the social side of our Association to good effect.
The people of Aghabog followed Gerry's career with great interest and were stunned to hear of his serious ailment after Christmas. We hoped that the fighting spirit of Gerry would carry him through this difficult time and were more than hopeful when we read in the newspaper where Gerry had represented the Dublin team at a hearing, alas it was not to be.
It was a sad day for the Aghabog and Parnell clubs when news of Gerry's sudden death came through. If there is any consolation for our club in Gerry's death, it is that we honoured Gerry and all his team mates of fifty years ago in a reunion only four months previous. The 50th Anniversary of that event was celebrated on the October Bank Holiday last year where Gerry was in fine form. Just four months later Gerry was no longer with us.
Even in death Gerry will continue to have a special place in the hearts and minds of Gaelic players everywhere, none more so than in his native Aghabog. The big turn out for Gerry's funeral Mass and burial from Aghabog was testament to the esteem that he was held in his native parish. and it was fitting that his former team mates, friends and officials formed a guard of honour to accompany Gerry to his final resting place.
We wish to express our sincere sympathy to Gerry's wife Bridie, daughters, Eimear, Sharon and Edel, son Ger. To his brothers Pat, Jim, Brendan, sisters Sadie and Mae, and extended family circle on their sad bereavement.
Ar Dheis De go raibh an anam.