RIP: Sadness as Mayo expat and GAA club stalwart passes away

Donal Gallagher, Rathgar, Dublin, who died in recent days, was formerly of Aughadeffin, Kilmovee, Mayo.

He was closely associated with the Kilmacud Crokes in Dublin where he rendered several years of dedicated service to coaching various teams, including the Ladies teams at the club.

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Donal was a tireless volunteer for the club and was one of the best-known people at the famous Dublin club.

Cyril Loughlin from Kilmacud Crokes said Donal made a massive impact both on and off the pitch. “His craftsman skill-set was a big asset especially at Sevens time and always provided with a bit of craic attached.”

Former Mayo footballer, Noel Durkin, was among those that joined in the tributes. “I fondly remember playing football with Donal in the Tech (Ballaghaderreen). He was a great footballer and leader of our team.”

Alvin Dunleavy recalled fond memories of Donal from their school days in Ballaghaderreen to the nights in the Midas Night Club and days at the Pattern in Urlaur. “We played football together for his local Kilmovee Shamrocks club where he wore the Green and Gold jersey with pride.

"He displayed exceptional skill and dedication on the pitch, not to mention his love of football which was evident in every game.”

Mass of the Resurrection was celebrated in St Joseph’s Church, Urlaur, and was followed by interment in St Bridget’s Cemetery, Urlaur.

Donal, who was predeceased by his father Seamus and his brother Des, will be sadly missed by his mother Bernadette, his children Aoife, Rachel, Jack, Katie and Lily, their mother Anne, granddaughter Thea, his brothers Michael and Shane, son-in-law Max, sisters-in-law Martina, Teresa and Angela, his nephews Kevin and John, his niece Helen, his aunt Nellie, Antoinette who shared his later years, his relatives and wide circle of friends.