Huge shock in Claremorris at sudden passing of Dick Horan

There has been a huge outpouring of sadness and sorrow in the aftermath of the sudden death on Friday last of Richard ‘Dick’ Horan of Garrywadreen, Claremorris, and formerly of Cushin, Aughagower.

Dick, as he was affectionately known to so many, was a retired member of An Garda Siochana and commanded huge respect and regard all around the region. He was a friend to all and always made time to share with so many people along the way. He was a prominent member of Claremorris Golf Club over many years.

Richard embodied the spirit of the community guard and people always felt so easy and at home in his company. The ever present and wonderful smile radiated the goodness and sincerity of this noble gentleman who could calm the stormy seas without even saying a word.

There is a huge sense of loss throughout his adopted community in the entire Claremorris region to which he contributed so generously since he and Margaret came to Claremorris and made the parish their home.

The family have had close ties with Claremorris GAA Club over the years and his son Jimmy was captain on the Claremorris minor team that won the Mayo county title back in 1995. Jimmy was also a selector with the senior team in 2012 and 2013 when former Galway and Corofin player, Martin McNamara, was manager. His other son, Gavin, also played underage grades with Claremorris.

Hundreds of people queued outside Gilligan’s Funeral Home in the rain and wind on Saturday evening to pay their respects to truly one of nature’s absolute gentlemen. Fr Peter Gannon, PP, celebrated the funeral in Claremorris Church on Sunday, with interment afterwards in St Colman’s Cemetery.

Dick, who was predeceased by his parents Henry and Nora, his sister Mary Nestor, and brothers-in-law Leo and James, will be greatly missed by his wife Margaret (Mags), sons Jimmy and Gavin, daughters-in-law Mary and Lorna, grandchildren Mae and Mollie, James and Ali, brothers Padraig and Donal, sisters Annette and Eileen, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, neighbours and many close friends.

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