The death has occurred of Jimmy Fitzpatrick from Spink, one of Laois GAA’s oldest supporters, who had only celebrated his 99th birthday on July 1.
Jimmy died in the loving care of Droimnin Nursing Home, Stradbally, earlier this week. His funeral mass takes place today.
Jimmy featured on LaoisToday last year ahead of the Laois hurlers appearing in the All Ireland quarter-final against Tipperary when he sent a message of goodwill from the nursing home.
He played football in his younger years with Spink and won a Junior Championship with the club when they beat Ballybrittas in a match refereed by Laois GAA great Bill Delaney.
He recalled beating Crettyard in the semi-final on a harsh November day.
Jimmy said: “We had no dressing rooms, no selectors, no nothing, and we picked our own teams”.
He also followed the hurlers all over the country.
In particular, Jimmy loved to watch matches between Laois and Kilkenny because they were always hard hitting and entertaining.
He also loved cycling into Portlaoise with friends like Jim Brophy and Paddy Brennan to watch the games.
Jimmy is deeply regretted by his loving wife Teresa, sons John and James, daughter Carmel, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Removal from his residence on Friday at 1.30 to St. Lazarian’s Church, Knock for Funeral Mass at 2pm. Burial afterwards in the adjoining Cemetery. Due to Covid 19 Directive Social distancing will apply at the Church and Cemetery. The family would like to thank you for your help and understanding at this time.
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