Mayo 'golfing legend' fondly remembered upon passing

Vincent Freyne, Clare Street, Ballyhaunis, Mayo, who died recently in the kind care of the staff at the Brookvale Manor Nursing Home, Ballyhaunis, was a prominent member of the local community all down the years.

He was predeceased by his wife Veronica back in July of this year.

A native of Manchester with strong roots in the Bekan area, Veronica was synonymous for many years with the local Guild of the ICA and won numerous prizes for the artistry of her excellent craftwork, especially embroidery, crochet and all aspects of knitting.

She was also a gifted artist and completed many beautiful and enduring works that stand as testament to her talents in this field of activity.

She excelled in her chosen career of nursing and midwifery and her compassionate, kind and empathetic nature was ideally suited to all matters relating to the caring profession.

Vinnie (84) was especially associated with the game of golf and the local golf club posted the following tribute to their cherished members who brought such attention and prestige to the club in former times.

“Ballyhaunis Golf Club extends deepest sympathy to the family of our former Club captain Vinnie Freyne who passed away peacefully at Brookvale Nursing Home.

"Vinnie was one of the outstanding amateur golfers in the province for many years and the first player from Ballyhaunis to play for Connacht winning an interprovincial title in the early 80s.

“Vinnie also helped win the inaugural Carroll’s Pro-Am for Ballyhaunis in 1980 while paired with Sir Nick Faldo. Vinnie also proudly represented Ballyhaunis for many years in The West of Ireland in Rosses Point,” read the statement from the club.

Enda Lonergan, Golf Ireland (Connacht) was among those joining in the tributes.

“May I on behalf of all in Golf Ireland and Connacht Golfing circles extend our sincere condolences to all the extended Freyne family and all at Ballyhaunis Golf Club on the passing of a golfing legend, and an all round lovely man.”

Reposing was at Donnellan’s Funeral Home with removal to St Patrick’s Church for the funeral Mass celebrated by Fr Stephen Farragher, PP. Interment took place afterwards in the local cemetery.

Vincent, who was also predeceased by his sister Bernadette, will be sadly missed by his sons Vincent, Glenn and David, partners Carmel and Nicole, his brothers Pat, Kieran, Bernard and Sean, and his sister Dolores, brother in law, sisters in law, relatives, neighbours and friends.