There is great sadness around Portlaoise and beyond as news emerged over the weekend of the sad passing of a local legend.
Christy Cahill of St Brigid’s Place, Portlaoise and late of Orchard, Timahoe, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, March 9.
Christy will be sadly missed by his wife Lily and children Geraldine Lynam, Christy, Tony and Liz Traynor.
He will also be missed by his former colleagues in Shaws and Eircom.
Mr Cahill was the manager of Portlaoise AFC when they reached the FAI Cup proper back in 1991.
Following the sad news of his passing, the club paid tribute to their former manager:
“All in Portlaoise AFC are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our former manager, Christy Cahill senior,” the club said.
“To say that Christy played a part in one of the most successful parts of the clubs history is an understatement.
“In the mid eighties Christy took over management of our senior team who were struggling in the Dublin AUL league at the time. Christy’s son, Christy Junior was one of our major players, hence Christy getting involved.
“Christy brought a level of professional and organisation to the squad, personally contacting players to strengthen the squad.
“Off the field Christy was also active, getting sponsorship for playing gear and the clubs first ever tracksuits for the senior team.
“Success on the field followed shortly afterwards, Christy guiding the team to the AUL Division 2 title in 1989 followed by the Premier C title the following season.
“The step to Intermediate football followed, leading to the unforgettable run in the FAI Senior Cup, the first time in the clubs history.
“The victory over Home Farm and narrow defeat to Kilkenny City still remembered fondly.
“On top of this Christy guided the team to the semi final of the prestigious FAI intermediate cup, along with an Leinster Senior Cup run that was ended by a Brian Kerr managed St Patrick’s Athletic who were League of Ireland champions at the time.
“Christy went way above his role as manager, looking after his players welfare off the field in a private manner also.
“Without exaggeration Christy was the driving force behind this golden period in the clubs history, many of us forever grateful to Christy.
“Christy’s grandson, Padraig is currently part of our senior teams.
“Sincere condolences to all the Cahill family.
“Ar dheis De go raibh an ainm dilis.”
The following funeral details have been announced by the Cahill family:
Christy will be reposing at Keegan’s funeral home on Monday, March 11 from 6.30pm until 8pm, with rosary at 7.30pm.
Removal on Tuesday morning from his home at 11.30am to arrive at SS Peter and Paul’s Church for 12 noon requiem Mass.
Interment will follow in SS Peter and Paul’s Cemetery, Portlaoise. House private, please.
SEE ALSO – Resounding Referendum defeat as Laois-Offaly records third highest No vote on both counts
