Laois GAA club mourns loss of esteemed Club President

Emo GAA club are mourning the loss of Eamon O’Connell, the last remaining founder member of the club, who passed away unexpectedly at home on Saturday, January 10, in his 89th year.

Formerly of Cappakeel, Emo, and most recently Straboe, Portlaoise, O’Connell leaves behind a profound legacy both on and off the field. Predeceased by his parents Thomas and Bridget, his sisters Emily and Kathleen , his brother Liam and infant brother Thomas. He is survived by his loving wife Betty, children Caroline, Siobhan, Gemma, and Eamonn, sons-in-law David, Pierce, and Niall, and grandchildren Jack, Shae, Jordan, Lily, Scott, Leah, Milo, Finn, and Oscar.

The club paid a heartfelt tribute to Eamon O’Connell on their Facebook page.

"It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to our President Eamon O Connell on his passing Saturday morning. It's a dark time for everyone in the club as Eamon was the last remaining founder member of Emo GAA club.

"To Betty, Caroline, Siobhan, Gemma , Eamon and all his beloved grandchildren, Son in laws, Daughter in law and extended family all in the Emo GAA community would like to pass on our sympathies to you on this heartbreaking time.

"Eamon played with Emo at all grades and was one of a few distinguished clubmen to win all adult championships. In 1962, he was part of our Junior championship-winning side; just 2 years later, he was also part of our 1964 intermediate championship-winning team. A few years later, Eamon was part of our finest hour in winning the 1972 Senior football championship.

"During his career, Eamon would have lived and worked over in England. This never deterred him from lining out with his beloved Emo, where he, along with other clubmen, would have frequented airports to answer his club's calling in coming home to play.

"Eamon would have begun his career as a teak tough centre-back in his early playing career, taking no prisoners, but as his career neared the end, he dabbled a bit up front in the forward line and wherever he was needed. As with all great clubmen Eamon was no different in supporting the club in any way he could once his playing days were over, he was a regular on the committees and was always on hand to help out when needed.

"In later years, Emo would have the pleasure of making Eamon our President for the past number of years, where he was held in such high regard by everyone. He will be fondly remembered by us all, and as they say, "They don't make them like that anymore". Ar dheis Dè go raibh a anam dìlis."

Eamon O’Connell reposed at his home (R32 VR6W) on Tuesday from 4pm, with the Recital of the Rosary held at 7.45pm. Removal on Wednesday morning at 10.20am to St. Paul's Church, Emo arriving for 11am Requiem Mass. Burial afterwards in the new cemetery. House private on Wednesday morning please. Family Flowers Only.