Local communities heartbroken over tragic passing of popular figure
The late Damien Kelly.
Communities across South Roscommon and Athlone are mourning the tragic passing of a very popular business and sporting figure.
Damien Kelly, Crannaghmore, Athlone is deeply regretted by his heartbroken wife and best friend Deirdre, sons Andrew and Charlie, parents Brendan J. and Anne, brother Conor, sister Tracey, parents in law Mike and Betty (Shine), sisters in law, brothers in law, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, relatives, work colleagues, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Tributes and messages of condolences have poured in from many people and local organisations since the passing of Mr Kelly, who was company director of Athlone based Planalife, a leading financial broker in the midlands.
Local Fianna Fáil councillor John Keogh said his passing will “leave a void that will be impossible to fill”.
“I knew Damien for almost 35 years, having first met him when we started secondary school together in St Aloysius College.
“I will always remember Damien as being humble and friendly, a trait that he carried with him throughout life. He was an able sportsman in school and played with St Brigid’s GAA in his younger years. Damien was well known and liked in Kiltoom, Cornafulla, Taughmaconnell and much further afield.
“He was an absolute and thorough gentleman all his life. He was a great community activist down throughout the years, from his involvement with Monksland United FC, St Joseph’s FC, Clann na nGael GAA and many other organisations locally. He was charitable with his time and generous in his business, sponsoring many local organisations over the years,” said Cllr Keogh.
Clann na nGael GAA club said it was was deeply saddened to hear of his untimely passing. "Damien was a longtime sponsor of teams in our club as well as being a past member of our club executive. Ar dheis Dé go raibh an anam dílis," it said.
Hodson Bay Celtic soccer club in Ballybay, Kiltoom said he was "a proud native of Hodson Bay, a passionate sportsman, and a huge supporter of local football.
"His dedication shone through in his coaching at both St. Joseph’s Football Club and Monksland United where he made a lasting impact," said the club.
Local soccer club Monksland United said it was "deeply saddened and heartbroken" about the passing of manager, colleague and dear friend, Damien Kelly.
"Damien wasn't just a manager within our club but was a true pillar of Monksland United. He was a dedicated, hardworking, enthusiastic coach both on and off the pitch and was always on hand to give his support to the club.
"He was a man who always loved to be a part of Monksland United and was a dedicated servant to our club where he managed four teams within the club and also served on the club committee during his time with the club."
The club said it had "lost a lifelong friend and somebody who left an impression on us all".
Mr Kelly will be laid to rest in Drum cemetery on Friday after Funeral Mass in Ss. Peter & Paul’s Church, Athlone.
