TRIBUTES: Death of Laois woman who was 'driving force' in sport

Portlaoise sport clubs are mourning with the family of a Laois woman who played a pivotal role in sporting successes.

Elizabeth (Lily) Keenan (née Kilbride) of Marian Place, Portlaoise died on Sunday, June 15 2025 in her 95th year.

Portlaoise Athletic Club describe her legacy.

"We were saddened this morning to learn of the death of our former Club President Mrs Lily Keenan. Lily held many roles in our club and was a major driving force in athletics in Portlaoise, Laois and wider afield.

"We owe her a debt of gratitude for her tireless work for our club. We were blessed to have all her sons and daughters compete for our club, winning titles at all levels in Cross Country and Track and Field. We offer our sincere condolences to Pat, Jimmy, Frank, Joe, Betty, Anne, Noeleen, Una, Martha and John and to her extended family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam".

Portlaoise GAA Club describe the late Mrs Keenan as "the matriarch of one of the foremost sporting families in Laois".

"Portlaoise GAA Club is saddened to learn of the passing of Lily Keenan this weekend. Lily was an institution in the town and the matriarch of one of the foremost sporting families in Laois.

"She was predeceased by her husband John - a man who was at the forefront of the Portlaoise hurling revival in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

"The club are blessed to have had players of the calibre of Pat ‘Pops’, Jimmy, Joe and Johnny - these players were leaders on the field of play and contributed to so many important town successes in hurling and football. Frank was a talented player also and is a former secretary of the club and contributed hugely at administration level in the 1990s in particular.

"All of the family were terrific athletes - with Anne becoming a famous and championship-winning international runner. Lily and John were so proud of each of their children and what a job they did fostering that competitive spirit within them all.

"The legacy continues to this day with multiple grandchildren representing Portlaoise GAA.

"The Keenan family are much loved in their town and county and our deepest condolences go to them at this time of immense loss for them, with the passing of Lily. May she Rest in Eternal Peace".

Mrs Keenan passed away peacefully at her daughter Martha's residence surrounded by her loving family. She was previously cared for by Bernie, Angela and all the staff at Ballard Lodge nursing home with such great love and tender care.