Laois and Portlaoise GAA lose one of their biggest fans

Portlaoise and Laois GAA has lost one of its most ardent fans with the passing of the late Billy Dargan.

Billy was a a very familiar and welcome face in Portlaoise and in O’Moore Park where he will be sadly missed by many in GAA circles as will be missed by the locals who knew him as one of the town's characters.

His club paid tribute.

"Portlaoise GAA Club was so saddened today to hear that one of our greatest supporters, Billy Dargan, has passed away.

Billy was a gentle soul and is a true Town legend.

"His infectious smile, his pure excitement for all the games, his pride in sporting his favourite colours - the green and white of Portlaoise and blue and white of Laois - will always be remembered. Billy's love of his club was fully reciprocated. He will be fondly remembered by so many Townies," said the club.

A resident of Harpurs Lane, he was the subject of a poem by Portlaoise poet Pat Boran.

Billy died peacefully on October 17 at the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise.

He is deeply regretted by his loving brother Tommy and sister in law Kate, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends, also all the staff at St Fintans Hospital Portlaoise.

Billy's remains were removed from Keegan's funeral home to arrive at St Fintan's Church on the Stradbally Road for Requiem Mass on Wednesday afternoon. Interment will follow in SS Peter and Paul's Cemetery, Portlaoise.

Government Covid-19 guidelines still apply. Please observe social distancing.