Mayo club pays tribute to 'one of its greatest ever players' on his passing

Castlebar Celtic FC has paid tribute to one of its greatest ever players whose death has occurred.

Neil McCarron, Sligo Road, Ballina, and formerly of Cleagh, Conmany, Co. Donegal, died peacefully yesterday at his daughter Elaine's residence, surrounded by his loving family.

In its tribute, the club stated: "Neil McCarron was one of Castlebar Celtic's greatest ever players.

"He was a quietly spoken and very humble Donegal man. He was tall and athletic. He was a very mobile player and an incredible goalscorer.

"His hat-trick of quality goals in the 1964 Connaught Cup final against a magnificent Westport United team remains the stuff of legends.

"He had already retired from the game due to a health issue.

"He was persuaded to make a comeback for the final. It was his only game that year.

"He was a member of An Garda Siochana and, ironically, he was transferred to Castlebar because his record stated he was a footballer and the force thought he was a GAA player, not a soccer player!

"Neil McCarron kept up a lifelong interest in the club, attending all the major games over the years.

"What a great player he was and what a wonderful person.

"Castlebar Celtic Football Club extends its deepest sympathy to his wife Olive, daughter Elaine, son Alan and his extended family.

"He may be gone but he will never be forgotten.  May his gentle soul rest in peace."

Neil is also survived by his grandchildren Ríain, Odhran, Colum. Cara, Alannah and Callum, daughter-in-law Jilly, and son-in-law Kevin, brother John and sisters Hannah and Elizabeth, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours, and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents John and Sarah, brothers Brian and Packie, sisters Sadie, Delia and Mary-Ellen.

Reposing at McGowan’s Funeral Home, Ballina, this evening (Friday) from 5 p.m. with removal at 6:30 p.m. to St. Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina.

Requiem Mass on Saturday morning at 11 a.m. followed by a private cremation service.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.