Mayo community mourns loss of respected local figure

There was no mistaking the regard and respect in which Louis Prendergast from Skevard, Ballindine, was held throughout the local community.

He was a central player in the life of the parish over the decades and his passing at the age of 72 has left a major void in the place he loved so well.

Louis was a wonderful community man and was involved in so many aspects of life in the parish. He was a loyal supporter of Davitts and was synonymous with the club since its foundation.

He was always there for them and was very proud of the way in which the achievements of the club were documented in Joe Reapy’s book last year (2024), celebrating 40 years of Davitts GAA Club. He was a member of the Davitts team that won their first South Mayo Junior title in 1975.

In earlier times, Louis worked for some years with Payne’s Factory in Ballindine as well as with Pat McHugh. Later years saw his work with Roadrunner and Fixline bring him to many parts of the country and he was a welcome caller wherever he went. Louis made time for everyone and was a good friend to all.

He was a great organiser with meticulous attention to detail and served as chair of the Ballindine Cemetery Committee as well as playing constructive roles in other community groups.

The many warm tributes reflect the special place Louis had throughout the region. Ger and Geraldine Conroy said: “We are truly heartbroken at the loss of our dear friend, neighbour and colleague of well over 50 years. Louis was a supreme organiser be it golf outings, parish events or for his beloved Davitts.

"No stone was left unturned. He enjoyed nothing better than having a beverage, chat and banter with his large circle of friends. His heart and soul was in his native Ballindine.”

Pat McHugh said Louis was his lifelong friend, colleague and confidante. “We travelled many roads together and never had a cross word. He was steadfast and straight, what he said he meant and his word was his bond. He will be irreplaceable to so many.”

Lawrence and Lucy Daly said Louis will be dearly missed in the local community. “He was a great friend and huge influence and servant to Davitts GAA Club. His organisational skills were second to none. His sharp wit and sense of humour with his straight talking and logical thinking was a force to be reckoned with.

"He will be dearly missed in Ballindine and the Golf Club especially. He was a gentleman and he left a lasting impression on all who met him.”

Imelda Higgins, Kilcock and Ballindine, commented: “I have known Louis since I was a small girl and he was a really lovely person. Ballindine has lost a truly integral part of the community.”

Local publican, Frank Clarke, stated: “ I don’t have the words to express the pain I feel at the untimely loss of my lifelong friend Louis. We have been through thick and thin together. He was first and foremost a family man - adored his family. Secondly, he was a Ballindine man. He was involved in too many organisations to mention.”

John Linehan, Mallow, Cork, said Louis was a great representative of their company, Fixline, and was popular with customers and staff and will be missed by all.

Outside of football, golf was another sporting passion and he was the main organiser of the Mayo Knights Golf Society which he ran so efficiently for over 30 years with great distinction, creating so many memorable occasions for the group.

Claremorris Golf Club said they learned with deep sadness of the passing of their esteemed member.

“Louis was a cornerstone of our club for many decades, a valued friend to so many, and above all, a true gentleman.”
The community turned out in large numbers for the funeral ceremonies on both days. Reposing was in Carey’s Funeral Home, Ballindine, and Fr Sean Flynn, assisted by Fr Martin O’Connor, celebrated the funeral Mass. Interment took place afterwards in Ballindine cemetery.

Louis, who was predeceased by his parents Luke and May Prendergast,   will be sadly missed by his wife Ann, daughters Gemma and Norma, son Keith, sons-in-law Barry and Tom, daughter-in-law Andrea his precious grandchildren Sienna, Ralph, Zara, Sam, Caileen and Bodhi, sisters Maureen and Helena, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many friends.