Simon Delaney (Killinkere)
The entire local community was plunged into grief on Wednesday August 5th, 2009 when Simon Delaney lost his life on Gallon Lake. Known to all as a gentle giant, the brilliant young Killinkere and Cavan goalkeeper died in the most selfless and courageous act of bravery. The 21-year-old from Stramaquerty lost his life alongside Matthew Gibbons (20) from Dublin as the pair tried to rescue a party of people after a boat had capsized on the lake. A promising young footballer who had already achieved more than most people can even dream about, Simon had represented Killinkere and Virginia College as well as the county at U16, minor and U21 levels. He will be remembered not just as an outstanding goalkeeper but also as a superb human being - responsible, gifted, loyal, courageous and friendly. Simon was already well on his way towards achieving his dream of playing for the Cavan seniors at championship level. His father Joe had brought him to play his first underage match when he was only six years old, and he was actually en route to a junior match between Killinkere and Laragh on that fateful day when he lost his life in such a heroic manner. Gaelic football had been a huge part of his life and a Guard of Honour was provided at Simon's funeral by members of Killinkere GFC and Virginia College on one of the saddest days the parish has ever seen.

Christopher Sheils (Virginia)
Virginia was plunged into desperate sorrow on October 10th, 2009 by the tragic death following a traffic accident of 18-year-old Christopher 'Crissy' Sheils. Christopher was on the Cavan minor team last year and was a brilliant young member of the Ramor United club. He excelled at gaelic football and won an array of medals from Community Games U10 right through to U21. With Lurgan and Ramor he gained medals at U12, U14, U16, minor and U21 grades and was twice voted Player of the Year. 'Crissy' also played for Virginia College and the county schools team. Christopher was just seven when he first lined out for Lurgan U10s in the Community Games, donning the No.10 shirt. He also wore the No.10 for Cavan's minors in both league and championship in 2009. He played for the Cavan U16s in the 2007 Buncrana Cup and was part of the Lurgan U14 Feile na nOg team that played in Carlow in 2002. In 2005, he was part of the Lurgan U14 hurling team that travelled to Cork. In the black and amber of Ramor, Crissy won an U21 championship medal in 2008 and a minor league in 2009. Despite his youth, he was already an established member of the Ramor senior team. He also took a great interest in coaching and completed the Coaching Foundation and Child Protection courses. Guards of Honour were provided by Ramor United GFC, the Cavan minors, pupils of Virginia College, Lurgan ladies GFC, An Post and colleagues from Christopher's Sport, Leisure & Management course at Cavan College.

Mrs Brenda Soroghan (Denn)
Originally Brenda Magee from Aughadreena, Mrs Soroghan was predeceased by her husband of 35 years, Peter. Brenda had a tremendous interest in gaelic games and both her sons - Gerry and Cathal - lined out for Denn.

Mrs Bassie McSherry (Denn)
Shock and sadness were caused in October 2009 by the sudden death of Rose 'Bassie' McSherry from Denmore. Born Rose Tully in 1924, she spent her entire life in the locality, where she became greatly loved and admired. Together with her husband Hugh John, she raised a family of eleven as well as running one of the most progressive farms in the region. Bassie's sons played with Denn, as do a number of her grandchildren to the present day. Her son Noel is involved with Castlerahan GFC, while Michael is strongly associated with Denn GFC.

Christy McHugh (Corlough)
The untimely death on Sunday January 17th, 2010 of Christy McHugh from Lannanaria caused much regret locally and over a wide area. Remembered as a friendly, good-humoured and holy man, Christy also took a great interest in the local GAA club, with whom he played for a number of years. Members of Corlough GFC provided a Guard of Honour at Christy's removal.

PJ Collins (Bailieborough)
The community of Bailieborough was much saddened by news of the death of Patrick Joseph 'PJ' Collins of Crocknahattina on Sunday January 3rd, 2010. Originally from Shercock, PJ was aged 69. He played for the Shamrocks in his younger days and was a member of the side that scooped the SFC in 1964. He remained a lifelong member of the local club and always followed their fortunes closely. Current members of the club and the local branch of Fine Gael combined to form a Guard of Honour at PJ's removal to St Anne's Chapel.
Mrs Kathleen Treacy (Belturbet)
Widespread regret was caused by the passing on Christmas Day 2009 at the Omega Nursing Home of Mrs Kathleen Treacy from Castlesaunderson. Nee Rudden from Creeny, Kathleen was the last surviving member of that family. An active person for the vast majority of her 90 years, Kathleen had a great interest in camogie and supported her sister Brigid, who played on the local team.

Maurice Cassidy (Ballyconnell)
Born in Ballymachugh in 1942, Maurice spent time in Glasgow and Leeds before returning to Ireland in 1977. He was an avid GAA man all his life, looking after local underage football. For a time he was juvenile chairman. A great community man, he always defended his club to the last. Maurice also loved a game of rounders and was a member of Kildallan Choir as well as serving as a Eucharistic minister.

Andy Boylan (Denn)
From Ardvarney, Andy was a member of the famous footballing family of the 1930s. His brother Packie played on the 1935 All-Ireland winning team, lining out at corner forward as Kildare were beaten by 3-6 to 2-5 in the final.

Frank Maguire (Belturbet)
The death occurred on February 2nd, 2010 of Frank Maguire from Morrissey Park, Belturbet. Originally from Shancorry, Frank was in his 96th year and was the last member of his family. He was involved in amateur dramatics in his younger days and also took a healthy interest in the GAA throughout his life. He always followed the fortunes of both 'the Rories' and the Cavan county team.

Phil Sexton (Cootehill)
Residents of Cootehill and surrounding areas were saddened to hear of the passing on January 21st, 2010 of Phil Sexton from Old Bridge Road. Originally from Killinkere, Phil worked as a farmer near Clones before emigrating to England. Upon his return, he served as caretaker at St Aidan's Comprehensive School. He was very strongly associated with Cootehill Celtic GAA Club, Cootehill Mental Health Association and Fianna Fail, all of whom contributed to his Guard of Honour.

Mrs Kathleen Kiernan (Denn)
Mrs Kathleen Kiernan of Denmore, Carrickaboy passed away at the home of her daughter, Mary McCabe, Loonogs, Crosskeys. A member of the highly-respected Galligan family from Aughacooney, Ballinagh, Kathleen will be remembered as a kind and helpful neighbour as well as a true friend and family lady. She played a huge role in the success of the family farm - alongside her late husband John Joe - and was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. Her family have a close association with Denn GFC and her grandsons Colin and Jerome are current members of the first team. The club provided a Guard of Honour at Kathleen's removal.

Mrs Annie Fitzsimons (Kilnaleck)
Annie wrote her autobiography for the local history, Ballymachugh and Drumloman South, in 2008. She lived a remarkable life and was one of the true characters of the locality. There were two Guards of Honour at her removal to Ballynarry - where she was baptised, confirmed, married and laid to rest. One was provided by the ICA and the other was from Ballymachugh GFC reflecting her family's long association with the local GAA.

Paddy Rafferty (Kingscourt)
Great sadness followed the passing on August 16th, 2009 of Paddy Rafferty, Rathlogan, Kingscourt. A former Gypsum employee, Paddy was a lorry driver by profession and was a formidable footballer in his younger years with Kilmainhamwood. He also lined out for the Gypsum Rangers interfirms team.

Tom Hopkins (Kingscourt)
From Mayo, Tom was a retired Garda Sergeant, last stationed in Bailieborough. He worked extensively throughout Cavan and Monaghan, including Mullagh, Swanlinbar and Kingscourt. Tom took part in handball while stationed in Kingscourt and was a loyal follower of the GAA teams and athletic club. He will be remembered as a generous member of the community.

Brian McCann (Drumgoon)
From Killatee, Brian McCann was a deeply religious man who supported the priests in Maudabawn Chapel. He spent some time working in England and was a noted footballer with Drumgoon in his youth. Members of the club provided a Guard of Honour at his removal.

Ruairi Dunne (Cavan Town)
Great sorrow was caused by the unexpected death of 28-year-old Ruairi Dunne from Rock Cross, Farnham Road, Cavan on New Year's Eve. Despite carrying a lifelong illness, Ruairi was a courteous and friendly individual, whose zest for life deeply touched all those who knew him. He had an avid interest in all sports and was a member of Cavan Gaels, who provided a Guard of Honour at his funeral.
Mrs Phyllis Brady (Mullahoran)
Phyllis Brady was a Limerick native who raised her family in Killydream with her late husband John Joe from 1971 onwards. John Joe was prominent in GAA circles, serving Mullahoran as chairman and Cavan County Board as vice-chairman.

Phil Lee (Cootehill)
The local community was saddened by the death of Mr Phil Lee on January 15th, 2010. Originally from Aghabog, Phil was 91 at the time of his passing. As a young man, he loved sport and played for both Killeevan and Aghabog, winning county medals in Monaghan in 1933 and '44. In recent years, he had been inducted into the Halls of Fame of both clubs.

Paul Sheridan (Virginia)
With deep sadness, Virginia and the surrounding area received news of the death of former Ramor player Paul Sheridan on December 17th, 2009, aged 41. Formerly of Rahardrum, Virginia, Paul ran a successful decorating and carpentry business in Philadelphia until becoming ill. He was on the Ramor United squad that won the SFC in 1985 and lined out at corner forward in the county final against Kingscourt two years later. Paul also played gaelic football for the Cavan Association in Philadelphia. Guards of Honour were provided by Ramor United at the funeral in Virginia and by the Cavan Association GFC at the viewing in Philadelphia.

Jim Fitzpatrick (Killygarry)
Mr Jim Fitzpatrick from Killygarry passed away on Thursday December 31st, 2009. A devoted family man and well-known dry stock farmer, Jim had a lifelong interest in the GAA, closely following the fortunes of his local Killygarry club.

Thomas Clarke (Killinkere)
Tommie Michael Clarke of Granafarna, Grousehall, Bailieborough was only 24 years old when he became ill and passed away suddenly in the early hours of December 27th, 2009. He was a talented and popular footballer with Killinkere and was in the middle of his studies to become a primary school teacher. Tommie also had a degree in agricultural science from UCD. His passing leaves a massive void that can never be filled.

Pete Ward (Cootehill)
The passing of Pete Ward, Corbeagh House, Cootehill severed a link with the past. Pete was well-known in teaching, theatre and GAA circles in both Cavan and Monaghan - as well as further afield. The Drumhowan native lived in Cootehill since 1970, where he taught woodwork and technical drawing at St Aidan's for 35 years. He was involved in Drumhowan in his early years and later with Kill GFC as well as coaching many teams in the comprehensive school in Cootehill. Pete helped out with the development of football grounds throughout Cavan and Monaghan, including Knockbride, Kill, Butlersbridge, Cootehill, Latton, Corduff, Drumhowan, Carrickmacross and Inver College. As a member of Kill Shamrocks GFC, he started work on the development of their grounds in 1980, when a park committee was formed, and saw that project through to completion in 1983. Boasting a deep interest in underage and minor football, he was chairman of St Finbarr's - an amalgamation of Kill, Drumgoon and Drung. He also served as an umpire alongside well-known referee Joe McQuillan. Pete played all his club football with his native club Drumhowan in the 1950s and '60s.

Patrick Reilly (Cavan Town)
The passing on February 5th, 2010 of Patrick Reilly, Pineview, Lisdarn, Cavan caused widespread regret. 'Big Paddy' played football for Cavan Gaels in his youth and later became affiliated to Ballinagh GFC. He was also a keen golfer and was renowned for his great love of cars.

Barney Magee (Killeshandra)
Barney Magee from Portinaquin was a gentle and well-spoken man who held a lifelong interest in the GAA. While working on a farm in Kildare in his youth, he regularly cycled to Croke Park.

Jack Devitt (Ballyconnell)
Jack Devitt of Brooklyn, New York, who passed away on October 1 2009 aged 91, was formerly of Ballyconnell. He played many times for First Ulster GAA club alongside his friends Jack Finnegan and Paddy Donohue.

Patrick Rooney (Ballyhaise)
The late Patrick Rooney loved music, fishing and sport. He was a keen supporter of Ballyhaise GAA and took great pride in watching his nephews Micheal, Stephen and Neil play. Members of Ballyhaise GFC joined with his former workmates from Cavan County Council to form a Guard of Honour.

Charlie O'Reilly (Ballyhaise)
Charlie O'Reilly was a brother of Ballyhaise GFC club chairman Tom O'Reilly and uncle of club secretary Mark O'Rourke. Members of the club formed a Guard of Honour for his removal.

Yvonne Kelly (Kilnaleck)
The area was plunged into shock and sorrow on Sunday November 8th, 2009 with news of the sudden passing of popular young lady Yvonne Kelly. A 40-person Guard of Honour accompanied the funeral cortege on its last 100 metres to Ballynarry church.
John Patrick Gargan (Kingscourt)
Formerly of Drumbar, Kingscourt, John Patrick Gargan had been living in New York for 65 years. In his early years, he had played football for Kingscourt Stars.

Mrs Bridget O'Reilly (Ballintemple)
Bridget was a hugely respected and much-loved woman. A native of Glasscarrick, she was a true Mullahoran supporter in her youth. After marrying Connie and moving to Bruskey, she began to take a keen interest in the fortunes of Lacken Celtic. A Guard of Honour was formed by Ballymore GFC and Lacken ladies and camogie club.

Patrick Doonan (Cavan Town)
Patrick Doonan from 10 Lakeview will be remembered as one of the most remarkable people ever to walk the streets of Cavan town. The 'Marathon Man', who was a mine of information on gaelic games, horse racing and athletics, was due to run his 50th marathon in Dublin the month he died. Members of Cavan Gaels GFC formed a Guard of Honour as Packie's remains were removed to Cullies Cemetary. Patrick played football with both the Gaels and Killygarry and was also aligned with many other clubs. His late, great uncle Willie Doonan played a key role in Cavan's 1947 All-Ireland final win at the Polo Grounds. He was the first Cavan man to run the Dublin City Marathon 20 times and had the distinction of running marathons on every continent.

Billy Simpson (Gowna)
Billy Simpson of Loch Gowna passed away at Lisdarn Hospital on August 9th, 2009. He was involved in all aspects of the local community, especially the GAA and the Tidy Towns. Billy had an interest in most sports but gaelic football was his favourite and he served Gowna as chairman and First Aid officer for many years. Members of the GAA club and Aircell Factory provided a Guard of Honour.

Paddy McGlynn (Belturbet)
It was with great regret that news spread of the death of Paddy McGlynn, Deaney Street, at the age of 84. Paddy loved football and was a faithful supporter of Belturbet Rory O'Moore's GFC.

Owen Lynch (Kilnaleck)
Owen Lynch of Corraghrredin was known for his exploits with the Crosserlough teams of the 1950s and 1960s. He was also a regular participant in dramatic productions.

Frankie Johnston (Cavan Town)
Frankie Johnston, who died on June 13th, 2009 aged 62, was one of Cavan town's most respected citizens. Gaelic football was one of Frankie's favourite hobbies and he was a great supporter of the local Cavan Gaels team as well as the Cavan county side.
James Kelly (Bailieborough)
James Kelly of Monaghanoose was in his 101st year. He maintained a keen interest in the GAA throughout his life and always followed the fortunes of both Bailieborough Shamrocks and Cavan.

Eugene Smith (Ballyhaise)
From Cavan Road, Eugene had emigrated to Boston in 1987. Despite making his home across the Atlantic, Eugene and his wife Dympna were regular visitors back to Ballyhaise. Eugene was an outstanding footballer. He captained Ballyhaise to minor league glory in 1979 and won a minor championship with Annalee Gaels (Ballyhaise/Drumlane) that same year. Two years earlier, he had starred at midfield on Ballyhaise' U16 championship winning team as well as representing Cavan in the Fr Manning Cup. He won a Rannafast Cup (Ulster U16) with St Pat's, Cavan and went on to add a junior 'B' championship and league medals with Ballyhaise in 1983 and '84 respectively.

Sean Smith (Cornafean)
Sean Smith of Killsallagh, Ballinagh was a native of Crossdoney and one of Cornafean's best-known characters. He was a keen GAA man throughout his life and played with Cornafean. He produced many outstanding displays at full back for the local club, lining out for the Reds from the late 1950s up until the mid 1970s. Sean's strength, commitment and leadership made the Cornafean defence particularly difficult to breach. He lined out at full forward in his latter years. Sean used to cross the River Erne by boat to make his way to practice and matches in the old park in Cornafean. After retiring, he was club chairman in the mid 1970s, organised the John Joe O'Reilly tournament (as committee secretary for 14 years) and was also a club delegate to the County Board. When the Cornafean underage club was formed in the early 1980s, Sean helped out with many of the young teams. He did unbelievable work for the club over the years, and was always willing to sell tickets, provide transport or offer advice. Sean Smith was a great GAA man and a great Cornafean man.

Pat Joe Brady (Mullahoran)
Pat Joe Brady, late of Grousehall, passed away in Yonkers, New York. As a young man he played for Mullahoran at all levels. He was a senior player during the early 1960s and normally lined out either as goalkeeper or defender. But he was a forward when Bailieborough were beaten in the 1963 championship final. Unfortunately, the versatile club stalwart emigrated soon after.

John O'Rourke (Cavan Town)
A renowned Labour activist and trade unionist, John O'Rourke of Jubilee Terrace was 82 when he passed away on June 22 2009. A keen GAA follower in his youth, he lined out for Cavan Harps and Crubany, winning senior league medals with the Harps in 1948 and '49. Members of Cavan Gaels joined with members of McCarren & Co. to form a Guard of Honour.

Philip McMenamin (Kilnaleck)
Another link with the great old days of Crosserlough was broken by the passing on July 2 2009 of Philip McMenamin. Philip was a regular in the early days of the great seven-in-a-row side, collecting county medals in 1968 and '69. A player who could function anywhere from corner back to corner forward with equal distinction, he joined the army after moving to Dublin and rose to the rank of Commandant.

Mattie O'Reilly (Kilnaleck)
Memories of a rural Ireland known only to older generations passed along with Mattie O'Reilly of Aughaloora on Monday July 6 2009. Mattie was involved in the Drumkilly football club as well as the formative years of the mighty Crosserlough. He played for both clubs and was one of the most ardent followers of the black and amber during their glory era. He became more involved with Lacken Celtic as the years went by and, at the time of his death, he was Honorary President of the Celts, while his son Niall was secretary. Mattie's sons Niall and Philip both played for Lacken.

Mrs Rose Corby (Belturbet)
The passing of Mrs Rose Corby, Holborn Hill, caused deep sadness in Belturbet and beyond. Rose was an ardent supporter of gaelic football and took an active interest in the fortunes of Belturbet Rory O'Moore's, with whom her sons played. The club formed a Guard of Honour for the removal.

Michael Wynne (Blacklion)
Michael Wynne, originally of Toam, Blacklion, who passed away in Straffordshire, England, was a former footballer with Blacklion.

Aidan Brady (Lacken)
Much sorrow was caused by the death following a short illness of 66-year-old Aidan Brady from Lacken. Football was a firm favourite of Aidan's and he gave sterling service to his beloved Lacken. Together with his brother Oliver, he won an intermediate championship in 1967. He gave many years' service to the Celtics, and had the distinction of playing in goals for the Cavan minors in 1960. However, after a stint between the posts he spent most of his playing days as full back and Aidan was a difficult rock to get past around the Lacken square. At Aidan's removal, his coffin was flanked by a Guard of Honour comprising club members past and present and the No.3 jersey he donned with such distinction was clearly evident.
Eugene Fitzpatrick (Killeshandra)
The sudden death of Eugene Fitzpatrick, Aghavadrin, in June 2009 caused widespread sadness. An extensive farmer with a great love of the countryside, Eugene was a good footballer in his youth and played for the Leaguers for many years. Huntsmen and members of the local GAA club formed a Guard of Honour at the removal to St Brigid's Church.

Seamus O'Reilly (Belturbet)
Much regret was caused in the parishes of Annagh and Drumlane by the death of Seamus 'Twinnie' O'Reilly. 'Twinnie' worked on the farm all his life and also ran 'Dan The Loughs' pub for a spell He had lived in Kilconny since retiring in 1985. He was a fine footballer in his youth and lined out at full back for Drumlane Sons of O'Connell in the late '30s and '40s.

Dean McKiernan (Belturbet)
The tragic death of Dean McKiernan from Killygarry shocked and saddened the whole community. Dean played at all underage levels for Rory O'Moore's and was full forward on the team that got to the 2008 county U21 semi-final. He was also a member of the reserve team. The Rories formed a Guard of Honour along with members of Gormanston College and Dundalk IT.

Paddy Maguire (Cavan Town)
Paddy Maguire of Drumelis was one of Cavan town's most popular figures. Gaelic football was a big part of his life and, when Cavan Slashers and Cavan Harps came together to form Cavan Gaels in 1957, he quickly became involved in the new club. He won league honours with the Gaels in 1958, '60 and '62, lining out on star-studded sides. When Cavan Gaels won the SFC for the first time, full forward Paddy scored the winning point in the final as holders Bailieborough were beaten by 3-5 to 1-10. Members of Cavan Gaels formed a Guard of Honour and the attendance at Paddy's funeral included a number of his former club colleagues as well as former Cavan player and the now late great Mick Higgins.

Tomas Harney (Kingscourt)
The Kingscourt area was immersed in sadness on May 11th, 2009 when word spread of the death of Tomas Harney, Fana Rua, Kells Road. A native of Galway, Tom was a former branch manager at Bank of Ireland. He was involved with the Walterstown club while living in Navan and later assisted with the training of Kingscourt Stars underage teams.

Matthew Donnellan (Bailieborough)
Matt Donnellan of Blackhills died peacefully at his home on February 9th, 2009, aged 64. He had a keen interest in sport and was a brilliant footballer in his youth, winning a number of underage medals with the Shamrocks including a county minor championship in 1962. Matthew was also on the first Kilmainhamwood underage team to win a championship in 1961 . He starred on the Bailieborough senior team for a number of years before going to live in London and then played with Kingscourt upon his return. He finished his football career with Cormeen, where he also played a lot of handball.

Fr Dan Deneher (Mullahoran)
The parish learned with much regret of the death of one of its favourite sons - former Cavan footballer Fr Dan Deneher. Originally of Loughdavid, Loughduff, Fr Dan was former PP of Brixham, England and died in Plymouth. As football was dear to his heart, he always followed the fortunes of Dreadnoughts. During his student days, Fr Dan enjoyed an illustrious playing career. He was an outstanding midfielder cum forward with St Mel's and became a regular with the Cavan county team. He was on the All-Ireland winning panel in 1947 but was unable to travel to the Polo Grounds for the All-Ireland final as he was refused leave of absence. But he was able to tune into the famous match on the radio. As a dedicated clubman, Fr Dan won six SFC medals with Mullahoran during the glory era of the 1940s - in 1942, '44, '45, '47, '48 and '49. Though his vocation impacted a great deal on his football career, Fr Dan still played a key role during a glorious era for Cavan football.

Paddy Duggan (Ballyhaise)
Renowned publican Paddy Duggan of Drumliffe was a popular community stalwart. He served the GAA club in Ballyhaise at all levels and was also a former treasurer of Cavan Minor Board. Paddy's great love of sport was most evident in his GAA activities. He served the local club diligently and was one of the principal driving forces behind the formation of the Annalee Gaels (Ballyhaise/Drumlane) minor amalgamation. It was a great day for the local community when they brought home the MFC crown in 1979.

Pat Sharkey (Drumalee)
The Drumalee area was greatly saddened to hear of the death of Pat Sharkey on January 24 2010. Aged 71, Pat had been a staunch Drumalee clubman all his life. His father Tommy was one of the founder members of the club back in the 1950s. Pat played junior football for the club and also served on the committee in a variety of positions, including chairman and secretary. He was one of the driving forces behind the upgrading of the playing facilities at St Felim's Park - now regarded as one of the top grounds in the county. One of Pat's proudest days was the official opening of the new grounds in 2002. He was a true GAA supporter and he and his late wife Veronica rarely missed a club or county game. Drumlane GFC provided a Guard of Honour at the removal of one of its finest sons.

John James McCabe (Arva)
John James was involved when the Arva club was reformed in 1962. His son Padraig is a current player with Arva GFC, who provided a Guard of Honour at the removal.

Philip Reilly (Arva)
Philip Patrick Reilly of Cortober, Arva was simply known as 'Phil Pat' to his many friends. He had a great love of gaelic games and followed both Gowna and Cavan. He derived tremendous joy from Gowna's SFC successes and particularly enjoyed Cavan's Ulster breakthrough in 1997 as there were so many Gowna men involved in that team.

Finbarr Noonan (Cavan Town)
Finbarr Noonan passed away at his 34 Tullacmongan residence on Monday April 20 2009. A Clare native who worked in the Defence Forces, Finbarr was a member of Cavan Urban Council from 1993 until the time of his death. As a keen sportsman, he was useful with the hurl and won numerous Cavan hurling championships with Cavan Gaels. He also pulled on the jersey of his adopted county and helped Cavan to a national league title and two Ulster medals. But naturally his greatest joy was watching the Banner County deliver the Liam McCarthy Cup in 1995.

Mrs Ellen Harten (Gowna)
It was with deep regret that news spread on January 9 2010 of the death of Mrs Ellen Harten, Knockaughey, Corlismore. Ellen had a great interest in sport all her life and was a big supporter of Gowna GAA. Members of the Gowna club provided a Guard of Honour at her removal.

Colum Curry (Ballyconnell)
There was grief and shock throughout Drumalee, Belturbet and Ballyconnell following the sudden death of Colum Curry following a short illness. Colum played for Kildallan for many years, was club president, and had a great interest in the GAA throughout his 79 years. Whilst living in Toronto, he was involved with the Garryowen football club over there, captaining them. At Colum's removal, members of Kildallan, Ballyconnell and Belturbet Rory O'Moore's formed a Guard of Honour - a fitting tribute as he had served all three clubs well.

Mrs Kathleen Bouchier (Arva)
The area was plunged into mourning by the passing of Mrs Kathleen Bouchier, Drumalt. A member of the popular Briody family from Gowna, she moved to Arva following her marriage to Mel. Gaelic games played a big part in Kathleen's life as she first supported her husband Mel and then backed her sons as they emerged onto the club team. She was proud as her children represented the county on various teams from U16 upwards and was also prominent in Arva ladies club. Both clubs were part of a huge Guard of Honour that highlighted the tremendous esteem in which Kathleen was held.

Patsy O'Reilly (Ballintemple)
Sadness was evoked by the passing on February 22nd, 2009 of Patsy O'Reilly, Dundrum, Dublin and formerly of Aughaloora, Kilnaleck. Patsy had a great love of the Irish language, music, sport and dance and was a member of the Kilmacud Crokes GAA club.

Peter Hearney (Redhills)
Peter Hearney of Scotshouse and late of Redhills was a noted gaelic footballer and supporter. He was on the Annagh (Redhills) team that won the 1945 county JFC final and that medal was one of his most treasured possessions.

Mrs Patty Clarke (Belturbet)
Regret was caused in the Milltown area by the death of Mrs Patty Clarke (nee O'Reilly) of Drumany, Pleydell. She will be remembered as an exceptional camogie player who starred for Ashgrove and Milltown at full forward. She also wore the county colours before emigrating to England in 1945, aged 20.

Tony McGarry (Kilnaleck)
The Ballymachugh / Lough Sheelin area was plunged into sadness by the passing of Tony McGarry of Ballyheelan and Ballina. Tony was heavily involved with the Ballymachugh club before emigrating to England and he once more immersed himself in the club's affairs upon returning, serving as an outstanding underage coach and administrator. The subsequent success of Ballymachugh adult teams owe much to Tony's hard work. Tony also supported the club financially in any way he could and made a kind donation towards the development of Sheelin Park.

James Charles (Drumlane)
The passing of James Clarke caused great sadness in the Drumlane area and beyond. James was president of Drumlane GFC and the club provided a Guard of Honour to escort him on his final journey.

Frank O'Reilly (Cornafean)
The late Francis O'Reilly of Farranseer was known as 'The Rock' during his football days. A member of a great football family, he starred alongside his brothers Big Ned and Benny. Francis lined out on many good Cornafean teams in the decade between 1945 and 1955.

Thomas Reilly (Ballintemple)
Thomas Reilly of Mullaghboy, Carrigan had a big interest in football and was particularly proud of his cousin John Joe, who wore the Cavan jersey with distinction and was a star player for Crosserlough for the best part of two decades.

Paddy Duffy (Cootehill)
The late Paddy Duffy of Bridge Street, Cootehill was a native of Monaghan and had the unique distinction of playing intercounty football for both Cavan and Monaghan. Paddy, who passed away on June 6th, 2009, was born in Broomfield, Donaghmoyne and went on to excel - mainly at midfield - on football pitches near and far. He won a SFC with Cootehill Celtic in 1955 and senior league honours in '55 and '56, lining out for Cavan between 1956 and '58. Paddy subsequently collected SFC medals in his native Monaghan with Ballybay in 1958 and '62, as well as a special league medal with Latton in 1969. In Ballybay, he became a close friend of Kieran 'Jap' Finlay and Jap paid his own special tribute when singing at Paddy's funeral mass. After hanging up his boots, Paddy served the Cootehill committee in a variety of roles including chairman, vice-chairman and PRO. He also refereed matches at local schools and had an interest in other sports like handball, snooker, pool, darts, bowls and soccer. Both Cootehill Celtic and Ballybay Pearse Brothers helped form a Guard of Honour at the funeral mass, while many of Paddy's former Latton team-mates were also in attendance.

Anna Gillic
(nee Hetherton) Anna was the matriarch of a great Oldcastle GAA family. A mighty woman and a great GAA supporter, she passed this love of Tweet

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