Northern Ireland

Donaghmore mourns GAA stalwart Barry Cush (45)

Barry Cush, a stalwart of Donaghmore GAA, has died aged 45
Barry Cush, a stalwart of Donaghmore GAA, has died aged 45 Barry Cush, a stalwart of Donaghmore GAA, has died aged 45

A Co Tyrone GAA club has paid tribute to a popular former player and coach following his death aged 45.

Barry Cush died in Craigavon Area Hospital on Thursday.

He was admitted to hospital before Christmas after falling ill.

The father-of-two, from Donaghmore, was a brother of former Tyrone footballer Adrian Cush and his death comes only around 10 months after that of his father Sean. His mother Marie died a year earlier.

He is survived by his fiancée Michele and sons Ciarán and Sean.

Donaghmore GAC said he was a "key figure" in the club as a former player, youth coach and member of its executive committee.

"Barry was always a familiar and friendly face around the club and will be missed deeply by all members of the club and the surrounding community," it said.

"We pass on our thoughts and prayers to the entire Cush family, Barry’s fiancé Michele and his two sons Ciarán and Sean. We ask that all Donaghmore patrons rally around Barry's friends and family at this difficult time, and show the love and community spirit that goes to the heart of our great club, of which Barry was so proud."

Donaghmore Appreciation Society also said it was saddened by Mr Cush's death.

"Barry was the epitome of Donaghmore; outgoing, loyal, supportive and always smiling. Baz will be sorely missed in the community, and will always be remembered," the community group said.

Requiem Mass will be celebrated at St Patrick's Church, Donaghmore, at 11am today followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.