Balla GAA Club pays tribute to one of its most loyal members Terry Connolly

Balla GAA Club has paid tribute to one of its best-loved and most loyal members, Terry Connolly, Prizon Road, Balla, whose death has taken place.

After a short battle with illness, Terry passed away peacefully on Saturday at Mayo University Hospital.

Predeceased by his parents Roger Connolly and Margaret (née Reilly), his sisters Monica Casey (Glan, Kilkelly) and Susan (Sue) Pollard Cassidy (Cunnagher, Ross, Castlebar), he was dearly loved husband of Pauline (née Tigue), formerly of Culmore, Kilkelly, and adored Dad of Dylan, Grace, Jack and Cian.

He is also survived by his brother Eddie (Sydney, Australia), uncles, aunts, cousins, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and work colleagues in Baxter, Castlebar, where he worked for over 20 years.

Deepest sympathy is tendered to the bereaved family on their loss.

In its tribute, Balla GAA Club stated: "Terry was a hugely valued member of our club, where he served with distinction in many positions over the years.

"He was a former Bord na nÓg chairman, member of the executive, underage coach, stats man with our County Junior Final winning team of 2018 and a former Club Person of the Year.

"He was also involved in a coaching capacity in the Mayo GAA underage academy and he played an instrumental role in the establishment of Balla LGFA, which is now a thriving club that provides a sporting outlet to so many girls in our area.

"When the call arrived, Terry was always willing to do whatever was asked through his love for our club.

"A minute's silence was observed before our Kelly Cup game against Ballintubber on Saturday evening in honour of Terry.

"In another time, he would have been present, volunteering in some capacity and cheering on the maroon and white.

"Terry was loved through his sporting capacity and through his work, as a valued and fondly remembered member of staff at Baxter Healthcare.

"He was also a deeply proud father to his adoring children, Dylan, Grace, Jack and Cian, and a dearly loved husband to Pauline.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the Connolly family during this difficult time."

Removal takes place from Terry’s home at Prizon Road on Tuesday at 11.15 a.m, arriving for Requiem Mass in St Cronan’s Church in Balla at 12noon.

The mass can be viewed on www.churchtv.ie/balla