Tributes paid in Laois and Carlow following the sad passing of Niamh O’Reilly (nee Dobbs)

There is deep sadness in Laois and Carlow this week following the passing of Niamh O’Reilly (née Dobbs), a former Carlow LGFA player. Niamh was a proud supporter of her three daughters, all of whom wore the Laois jersey in 2025.

Niamh passed peacefully after a long illness borne with bravery, dignity and humour, in the loving arms of her family.

She is deeply mourned by her beloved husband Brian and her adored daughters Katie, Lucie and Molly. She will also be greatly missed by her mother, Maureen, siblings Siobhan, Thomas, Veronica and Emma, extended family, neighbours, and a wide circle of friends. Niamh was predeceased by her father, Tom and father-in-law, John.

Her funeral arrangements are as follows: reposing at her home (Eircode R93 N6E4) on Thursday from 6pm and today, Friday, from 12 noon, concluding with prayers this evening at 8pm. Requiem Mass will take place on Saturday at 12 noon in Saint Abban's Church, Killeen, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. Family flowers only, with donations, if desired, to Carlow Hospice and Éist.”

Niamh will be remembered not only as a much-loved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend, but also as an exceptional figure in ladies’ football. A gifted and versatile player, she represented her club St Fortchern’s and Carlow county teams with distinction, winning numerous medals at both local and inter-county levels. Renowned as a brilliant attacker, she was equally capable in defensive roles. She collected multiple Carlow championship medals, enjoyed Leinster glory at club and county level, and proudly represented her province in the inter-provincial series.

Her influence on the game extended beyond her playing career. Niamh became a respected coach, inspiring younger players and emerging as a role model across the sport. She participated in the inaugural Leading Provincial Females Programme in 2021, aimed at developing female leaders in the LGFA and GAA, and later served as a Carlow Junior team selector.

Her passion for the sport shone through most of all in her pride for her daughters. Katie, Lucie and Molly played for Laois this year at Minor, U16 and U14 level, with their mother an ever-present supporter as they wore both the county colours and their club jersey for St Brigid’s

Tributes have poured in from across the LGFA community. LGFA President, Trina Murray, said: “All of us at the Ladies Gaelic Football Association are deeply saddened to learn of Niamh’s passing. A stellar player for her club and county, Niamh graced the playing fields with class and distinction. She was an incredibly skilful player who had the capacity to turn a game in an instant with a flash of familiar magic. Many an opposition defence suffered at Niamh’s hands, but she was also more than capable of turning her hand to defensive duties.

“Niamh also emerged as an outstanding coach who was incredibly invested in emerging young talent, and she was so proud of her daughters as they embarked on their playing careers. On behalf of all of us at the Ladies Gaelic Football Association, I wish to extend our sympathies to Niamh’s husband Brian, and her daughters Katie, Lucie and Molly. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.”

Laois LGFA Chairperson Martina Phelan added: “We are all deeply saddened by this news in Laois and extend our sympathies to Brian, Katie, Lucie and Molly, and to all those who loved Niamh.”

As a mark of respect, St Brigid’s fixtures scheduled for this weekend have been postponed.

May her gentle soul rest in peace.

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