The death has taken place of the former Tipperary hurler Fr Ray Reidy.

A native of Thurles, Fr Ray was based in Clonmel for many years. He won an All-Ireland senior medal with Tipperary in 1958, having captained the Premier County to an All-Ireland minor title three years earlier. His sister Ann was married to the legendary John Doyle, holder of eight All-Ireland medals, who passed away in 2011.

Tipperary GAA has paid the following tribute to Fr Ray, whose Funeral Mass will take place in Kiltegan, Co. Wicklow on Saturday:

"It is with regret that we have been informed of the death of former Tipperary inter-county Hurler, Fr Ray Reidy, Clonmel.

"Fr Ray Reidy was born in 1937 in Thurles and played centre back on Tipperary Minor hurling teams for three years being captain the third year in 1955 when they won the all Ireland title. He played on Tipperary Senior Hurling teams from 1956 to 1960 and won an all Ireland Senior medal with the team of '58.

"In 1963, Fr. Ray Reidy S.P.S. Kiltegan and Mill Road, Thurles, was ordained to the priesthood and went on the missions to Nigeria that year. Despite his commitment to his priestly studies, which curtailed his availability, Ray's contribution to that golden era for Thurles Sarsfields club was immense in the late '50's and early '60's.

"Simply, but aptly described by a contemporary as "a class player" and a stylish wing-back, Ray's reading of the game, and the quality of his striking, were of the highest order. He played with an elegance that was a delight to watch and was widely admired, but when the going got tough he was never found wanting. Had he not answered a higher calling, Ray would undoubtedly have amassed much more honours at both club and county level.

"Coiste Chontae Thiobraid Árann extends its deepest sympathy to his sister Ann Doyle and to all the Doyle Family, Holycross.

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal."

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