Passing of much-loved Mayo woman Eleanor Quigley is deeply regretted
The death has taken place of Eleanor Quigley (née Brady), Anfield, Spencer Park, and late of Newtown, Castlebar.
She died unexpectedly yesterday at University Hospital Galway.
The news has evoked a huge sense of loss and sorrow in the community where she was held in such high esteem.
She was beloved wife of Pat Quigley, a former president of the Football Association of Ireland.
Predeceased by her parents Nan and Paddy, sister Kathleen and brother Mick, she is deeply regretted by her heartbroken husband Pat, daughter Patricia and her partner Charlie, son Shane and his wife Jess, grandchildren Aaron, Joshua and Tara, sister Nan Clarke (Ballina), brother-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, friends and neighbours, to whom sympathy is extended.
Many tributes are being paid to the deceased by local soccer organisations with whom her family has had a close association over many years.
Castlebar Celtic FC said it was was very saddened to learn of the passing of Eleanor, wife of club vice-president Pat and mother of long-serving members Shane and Trisha.
"Our condolences to all the family at this tough time. May her gentle soul rest in peace," a club statement added.
Ballyheane FC, Westport United FC, Ballyhaunis Town FC, Claremorris FC and others have joined in extending sincere condolences to the Quigley family at this sad time, as have the Football Association of Ireland, Connaught Football Association, Mayo Football League, Mayo Schoolboys/Girls and Youths AFL and Mayo Women's League.
A minute's silence was observed at Milebush Park, Castlebar, yesterday ahead of the Schoolboys FAI Inter-League Cup semi-final between Mayo and Cork as a mark of respect to the deceased.
Eleanor was a member of the social committee of the Mayo Football League for many years and also had a close affinity with Milebush Park, now known as Solar Park.
She was widely known and respected by soccer supporters throughout Mayo and further afield who regularly collected their tickets for Republic of Ireland international games at her home prior to the sale and distribution of FAI match tickets going online.
This was a very time-consuming responsibility, but nothing was ever too much for Eleanor in that regard, invariably being delighted to offer her assistance to those following the sport they loved.
Needless to day, she was a pillar of support for Pat during his time at the highest levels of football administration in Ireland and Europe and the up and downs that such work entailed.
It was always a pleasure visiting her home, such was her warm, affable and generous nature.
She enjoyed travelling to different parts of the world with Pat, but her heart was always in Castlebar, her home town.
A keen gardener, her lawns and flower beds were rarely less than pristine.
Eleanor was also a wonderful neighbour, happily giving of her time and assistance whenever asked.
She will be greatly missed by everybody who knew and loved her.
May her gentle soul rest in peace.
Her remains reposing at Coady’s Funeral Home on Tuesday afternoon from 4.30 p.m. with removal at 7 p.m. to her residence.
Removal from her residence on Wednesday morning at 10 a,m. for Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. in the Church of the Holy Rosary, followed by Cremation Ceremony in Shannon Crematorium at 3 p.m.
May her gentle soul rest in peace.