'One of the greatest Laois ambassadors' - Laois GAA's tribute to Liam O'Neill

Laois GAA County Board has paid tribute to the late GAA President and its former County Secretary, Liam O’Neill, on his passing.

Laois GAA say it is with “profound sadness” that it has learned of the passing of one of the greatest servants Laois GAA has ever known, “our esteemed friend and former Uachtarán Chumann Luthchleas Gael, Liam O’Neill”.

In a statement, they say Mr O’Neill was a “proud Laois man” who devoted a lifetime to the promotion and development of Gaelic Games at club, county, provincial and national level. They describe as “remarkable” a journey of service that culminated in his election as the 37th President of the GAA, where his “leadership, vision and unwavering commitment” to association left an “enduring legacy”.

Laois GAA said that while Liam’s contribution to the GAA was recognised throughout Ireland and beyond, he remained deeply proud of his roots in Trumera. A lifelong member and devoted servant of his beloved club, Laois GAA say he was also a highly respected principal of Gaelscoil Thromaire.

“Through his work in education and his lifelong commitment to Gaelic Games, Liam inspired generations of young people, firmly believing that the values learned on the playing field and in the classroom would shape stronger individuals, stronger clubs and stronger communities. His passion for nurturing juvenile players and volunteers reflected his unwavering belief that the future of our Association begins at grassroots levels,” said the statement.

The County Board say Liam was an “outstanding ambassador” for the GAA and an “immensely proud” representative of Laois. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

“Whether serving his club, Laois GAA, Leinster Council or the Association nationally, he fulfilled every role with distinction, integrity and humility. His election as President was a source of immense pride for the people of Laois, and his wisdom, generosity and counsel earned him the respect, admiration and friendship of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“Laois has lost one of its greatest Gaels, but Liam’s legacy will live on in every corner of our Association, inspiring future generations to serve their clubs and communities with the passion, humility and dedication that defined his remarkable life,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of Laois GAA, Chairperson PJ Kelly praised Mr O’Neill’s contribution.

“Laois GAA is deeply saddened by the passing of Liam O’Neill, one of the Association’s greatest servants and a proud son of County Laois. Liam was one of the greatest ambassadors Laois has ever produced. His service to the GAA, culminating in his term as Uachtarán CLG, inspired generations of volunters both within our county and across the association. We are immensely proud of all that he achieved and deeply grateful for the legacy he leaves behind. On behalf of Laois GAA, we extend our sincere sympathies to his family, friends, club colleagues and all who mourn his passing,” he said

The statement concluded by extend our heartfelt sympathies to Liam’s wife, family, the Trumera GAA community, colleagues and wide circle of friends, and to all who mourn his passing.

“Ní bheidh a leithéid ann arís. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis”.