JOHN KELLY, RIP President East Kerry GAA and member Spa CLG
We extend deepest sympathy on the unexpected passing away of East Kerry GAA President, John Kelly, to his beloved wife Sheila, family, relatives, many friends and to his club Spa CLG
The sad news of Johns passing away left so many with a heavy heart, saddened and shocked at the loss of a great gentleman, who was always a willing helper and generous with his time and extensive knowledge.
John, a retired Pscychiatric Nurse, was involved in a broad range of organisations and activities, ranging from the GAA at club, District and County levels through Rowing (Killarney Regatta and Commercials RC), Golf, Pitch and Putt and South Kerry Development Partnership /Social Inclusion activities.
Johns involvement in matters GAA in East Kerry was tremendous for decades spanning well over 40 years. Reflecting this John was honoured with the 2013 East Kerry GAA Hall of Fame Award and he succeeded the late Brendan Walsh(Glenflesk) as President of East Kerry GAA Committee in 2015.
Johns involvement with the East Kerry GAA Board commenced in 1984 as PRO, a position he held with distinction for 5 years before moving on to Chairman from 1989 to 1996. John then spent a further five years as a selector with the highly successful East Kerry team which won three County Championships (1997-1999) on the trot under the guidance of Sean Counihan and Tommy “Bracker” Regan and various selection committees. In one of those years, 1997, East Kerry made a clean sweep, winning the Senior, U21 and Minor County Championships.
John was physiotherapist to Spa CLG, East Kerry GAA and Kerry GAA teams and was asked by Paidi O Se and Seamus Mac Gearalit to join the Kerry set up from 1997 to 2004.
A highlight of Johns football career, was winning an O’Donoghue Cup title, with Spa CLG, in 1966. He served as chairman of Spa and was Spa PRO from 1972 to 2013- a period of 40 years. He was a members of Kerry GAA County Committee/Board where he served as the Spa club delegate. He also kept the GAA team going in St Finians Hospital.
John was always helpful to the East Kerry Board and could be relied on to cover games and write match reports for the Board.
John will be sadly missed. Ni bheidh a leithead ann aris. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.
