Passing of Mayo soccer stalwart Paddy Flynn

Ballina Town Football Club has announced the death of their president and founder member Paddy Flynn.

A native of Westport, Paddy helped set up the club on December 8, 1961, in Geraghty's public house on Garden Street, Ballina.

A tribute on the club's Facebook page stated: "Throughout his life Paddy was a dedicated servant of the club, both on and off the field.

"We will forever be in his debt for the contribution he has given to the community of Ballina.

"Our thoughts are with his wife Anne, and their family Pat, Michelle, Susan and Annette.

"Fittingly on the day of his passing Ballina Town and Westport United played out a 2-2 draw in Belleek Park.

"Thank you Paddy for your lifetime of service to Ballina Town F.C.

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

The news of his passing has evoked an immense sense of loss and sorrow throughout the Mayo soccer community.

Apart from his club involvements, the deceased was a long-serving member of the Mayo Football League and is a former secretary and treasurer of the organisation.

Predeceased by his parents, brothers and sisters, he is deeply regretted and dearly missed by his loving wife Anne, son Pat, daughters Michelle (Bonner), Susan (Finnerty) and Annette, sons-in-law Packie and Pat, his adored and loving grandchildren Eoghan, Aoife, Niamh, Aisling, Éanna, Emma, Cathal, Ciara and Maeve, brother Peter (Westport), sister Rosie Lavelle (Australia), nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and many friends and especially his colleagues at Ballina Town F.C.

Reposing at McGowan's Funeral Home, Ballina, on Tuesday evening from 5 until 7pm.

Funeral cortége will arrive to St. Muredach's Cathedral, Ballina, on Wednesday morning for Mass of the Resurrection at 11.30 a.m. with burial afterwards to Leigue Cemetery via Bohernasup.

Funeral Mass will be live streamed at www.ballinaparish.org