Northern Ireland

Crossmaglen GAA's tributes to lifelong member Gerry Moley

Gerry Moley pictured with the Gerry Fagan Cup during celebrations in Hanratty’s Bar, Crossmaglen, in October 2018.
Gerry Moley pictured with the Gerry Fagan Cup during celebrations in Hanratty’s Bar, Crossmaglen, in October 2018. Gerry Moley pictured with the Gerry Fagan Cup during celebrations in Hanratty’s Bar, Crossmaglen, in October 2018.

MEMBERS of a Co Armagh GAA club formed a guard of honour yesterday at the funeral of one of its oldest and most respected clubmen.

Gerry Moley Snr (84), from Crossmaglen, passed away on Friday.

Crossmaglen Rangers GAC suspended all matches and activities at the weekend as a mark of respect to Mr Moley whom they described as a "lifelong member, supporter, generous sponsor and loyal friend, a true Cross Ranger".

The popular businessman and devoted father and grandfather founded Moley Coaches, along with his late wife Rose, almost 50 years ago.

Gerry Moley with Róisín Murtagh of Crossmaglen Rangers GAC in 2017
Gerry Moley with Róisín Murtagh of Crossmaglen Rangers GAC in 2017 Gerry Moley with Róisín Murtagh of Crossmaglen Rangers GAC in 2017

Róisín Murtagh, the club's public relations officer, said so many people had fond memories of Mr Moley, whether it was driving the school bus, taking teams to matches or ferrying bus loads of young revellers to places like the Oasis in Carrickmacross.

She said: "I think everyone would agree he had the patience of a saint and was always so pleasant and helpful, reassuring to players when things didn’t go right on the football field or to children if they had a bad day at school."

One of Mr Moley's most memorable trips was driving the bus to the All Ireland Club final in 1997 at Croke Park.

Two of his sons, Miceal and Patrick, were part of the squad which returned victorious after defeating Knockmore, Co Mayo.

Mr Moley passed away peacefully at Glencarron Nursing Home with his family by his side. His funeral service took place at St Patrick's Church, Crossmaglen, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

He is survived by his sons Gerard, Miceal, Francis, Patrick and Paul, brother Gene, sisters Kathleen and Mary and family circle.