Laois and Camross GAA mourn the passing of legendary hurler Jer Cuddy
Record-breaking championship winner remembered as one of Laois hurling's finest servants
There was widespread sadness across Camross, Laois and the wider GAA community following the death of one of the county's greatest hurling servants, Jer Cuddy, whose remarkable playing career spanned generations and left an indelible mark on his club.
Jer Cuddy, of Cardtown, Camross, formerly Aughduff, passed away unexpectedly in Tallaght Hospital on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife Nuala and his family.
One of the finest players ever to wear the Camross jersey, Jer enjoyed an extraordinary career that saw him collect his first senior and Under-21 championship medals in 1965. He captained both the Camross Under-21 and senior teams to championship success in successive seasons in 1968 and 1969, underlining his leadership qualities as well as his outstanding ability.
His place in Camross folklore was cemented over the following decade and beyond, as he amassed a remarkable 16 senior championship medals, a record tally that was completed in 1980. In that same year, he inspired the Camross junior footballers to what remains the club's only Laois Junior Football Championship title, highlighting his versatility and commitment to Gaelic games.
Jer was admired not only for his achievements on the field but also for his humility, generosity and lifelong dedication to his club and community. He was respected throughout Laois and far beyond, with his influence continuing through the generations as his family followed in his sporting footsteps.
His passing was acknowledged at Croke Park before last Saturday's Joe McDonagh Cup final between Laois and Carlow, where a minute's silence was observed in his memory. It was a fitting tribute to a man whose contribution to Laois hurling cannot be overstated.
In another poignant family connection on the same day as his funeral, Jer's granddaughter Aimée Collier starred for the Laois Camogie side as they defeated Meath in Portlaoise. She set up a goal for Kirsten Keenan before scoring 1-6 herself in an outstanding display.
Predeceased by his parents Jack and Mary-Ellen, brothers Seán, Jim and Lar, and granddaughter Chloe, Jer is deeply mourned by his beloved wife Nuala; his children Diarmuid, Ray, Sinéad, Noel, Ken, John, Karen, Niall and Brian; his many grandchildren; brothers Vin, Martin and P.J.; sisters May, Margo, Marian and Imelda; sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
He reposed at his home in Cardtown on Friday evening before removal to St Fergal's Church, Camross, on Saturday for Requiem Mass, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
For generations of Camross supporters, Jer Cuddy represented the very best of the club's proud tradition. His legacy will endure in the history of Laois hurling and in the memories of all who knew him.
May he rest in peace.