RIP: Heartbreak in Laois as GAA club pay homage to popular woman loved by many
Mary Bergin from Portlaoise was 'the matriarch of one of Portlaoise’s truly great GAA families'
Tributes have poured in and many are heartbroken following the death of a woman deeply connected to her community in Laois.
Mary Bergin was from St Brigid's Place, Portlaoise, Laois and died on 31st March 2026.
Mary died peacefully surrounded by her loving family. She was the dearly loved mother to Liam, Paul and Séan and recently deceased Mary Kelly. Predeceased by her husband Tom and daughter of the late Dinny and Mary Griffey and sister to Denis Griffey.
Deeply regretted by her loving family, daughters in law, son in law, nephews, nieces, grandchildren, great grandchildren, relatives and friends.
Portlaoise GAA paid special tribute to Mary after hearing the very sad news.
The GAA said: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mary Bergin, who was the matriarch of one of Portlaoise’s truly great GAA families.
"Mary was at the heart of a household steeped in hurling tradition. Her sons Liam and Paul lit up the fields as star players through the 1980s and 90s, with youngest son Seán proudly following in their footsteps in later years.
"Together with her late husband Tom, an inspirational hurling man and mentor to so many teams over the years, Mary was a brilliant supporter of the club.
"She was a familiar and welcome presence at club matches and events and a regular at the weekly lotto for many years, a supportive presence and always in great humour.
"The Bergin family have endured great sadness in recent times, with the heartbreaking loss last year of Mary’s daughter, Mary Kelly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Liam, Paul, Seán, and all the Bergin family at this very difficult time".
Heartfelt messages have been left on RIP.ie too, from those who knew and cared deeply for Mary, with one mourner writing,
"Sincere condolences to Liam Paul Sean and extended Bergin family on the death of your dear mam Mary. She was a true lady and always had a kind word for us when we were growing up. May heaven be your mams bed".
Another message said, "My deepest sympathies to Liam, Paul, Sean and extended Bergin family on the death of your lovely Mammy. She was a lovely lady and neighbour growing up in St. Brigid's. May her gentle Soul Rest In Peace".
"Sincere sympathy to Liam, Paul, Sean and all the Bergin family on the sad passing of Mary. She was a lovely woman- so friendly, so kind and so caring always. Rest in peace now Mary reunited with your beloved Tom and precious daughter Mary," another person said.