Michael Glavey’s GAA club pays moving tribute to late Michael James Kelly

Michael Glavey’s GAA club has paid an emotional tribute to the late Michael James Kelly saying he was a pivotal part of the club  and his role in its development cannot be overstated.

Mr Kelly from Carraghs, Ballinlough, Roscommon passed away on Sunday surrounded by his devoted family.

The local club stated: "Michael Glavey’s GAA club extends deepest sympathy to the Kelly family on the death of their beloved Michael James, husband to Bernie and father to Michael, Brendan, Kevin, AnnMarie, Sean and Helen, as well as his sister Rose and the extended family and a large circle of friends.

"Michael Glavey’s GAA club owe a huge debt of gratitude to Michael James. His role in the development of the Peadar Earley Memorial Park cannot be overstated. As a member of the Parks Committee from its inception in 1980, he played a pivotal role. He oversaw the development of the site from the day the first chainsaws were heard on Sampey’s lawn. From that day until the first match was played, many difficulties were encountered but MJ faced them all with the same ‘can do’ attitude. 

"Whether it was his time, his advice, his knowledge, or his machinery, all were given with the same generosity of spirit. He was the supervisor for the first Youth Employment Scheme and it’s fair to say that those young lads learned a lot under his tuition. What stands today on Sampey’s Lawn is a fitting tribute to his contribution and must never be overlooked.

"MJ didn’t confine his involvement to development. He was involved in coaching underage teams and was a very astute reader of the game. In fact, I have a vague memory of Michael James with a whistle in his mouth! He was an outstanding fundraiser, sure, you couldn’t refuse him! Trips around the country selling tickets for a car come to mind.

"Michael James was a man of huge charisma. He was excellent company and possessed an infectious personality. His family will miss him the most, but the Michael Glavey’s family will be much the poorer for his passing.

"Go n’éirí an bóthar leat a Mhichíl. Ní fheicimid do leithéid arís."

Mr Kelly will repose on Wednesday evening at McDonagh's Funeral Home, Castlerea, from 4 o'clock until 7 o'clock. The funeral will arrive at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Ballinlough, on Thursday morning for Requiem Mass at 12noon, followed by burial in Ballinlough cemetery.