Armagh Harps GAA club has led tributes following the passing of well-known and much‑loved local man, Paul Clarke, who died peacefully at home on Friday, August 14 surrounded by his loving family.
Paul, from The Hermitage in the city, was the beloved husband of Jacqueline and devoted father of Liam and Eoin. He was the cherished son of Ann and the late Adrian, and a much‑loved brother to Catherine, Stephen, Simon, Philip, Dominic, Andrew, Nathan and Miriam. He was also a dearly loved son‑in‑law of Vera and the late Jimmy Nugent.
A familiar face across the city, Paul was widely remembered as a gentleman, known for his sharp wit, love of craic and his deep passion for both Armagh Harps and Celtic FC.
Friends have been sharing fond memories of a man who, as one tribute put it, was “a stoic gentleman who fought hard for a long time”.
One woman wrote: “Saddened to hear Paul has passed away, have the fondest memories of him. A stoic gentleman who fought hard for a long time. I will miss his texts and the craic with him. Thinking of all of his family over the coming days and weeks ahead.”
Others recalled him as a well‑known character during his days at St Patrick’s College in the 1970s, where his humour and personality left a lasting impression.
Armagh Harps GFC, with whom Paul’s name had become synonymous, led tributes to their “esteemed member”, outlining a lifetime of dedication to the club.
In a statement, the club said it was “deeply saddened” to learn of his passing.
“Paul was a devoted Harps man and Gael,” the tribute read. “He was dedicated to his Club from his early playing days, during his service to the Committee, through his management role, as a Club sponsor and benefactor and active member and supporter. He was a true ambassador for Armagh Harps and was inducted into the Club Hall of Fame in 2024.
“We offer our sincerest condolences to his wife Jacqueline, sons Liam and Eoin, his mother Ann, sisters Catherine and Miriam, brothers Stephen, Simon, Philip, Dominic, Andrew and Nathan, his mother in law Vera, the extended Clarke and Nugent families and his many friends.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
The Armagh Harps Social Club also expressed its devastation at losing one of its most loyal and lively characters.
“Unfortunately, another seat in our club is empty, and we are all totally devastated at Paul’s passing. He will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. This news has hit us all very hard,” their tribute read.
“We are sending our sincerest condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time. We are holding tight to the memories we shared with him. Our phones will never be the same again – we will miss his abuse and random text messages.
“Rest in peace, dear friend.”
Paul will repose at his late residence, 24 The Hermitage, Armagh (BT61 8AH). Friends and neighbours are welcome to pay their respects on Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 10pm.
The house will be private for family and close friends on Monday morning.
Funeral Mass will take place on Monday in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, at 11am, followed by burial in St Patrick’s Cemetery.
Paul is very deeply regretted by his sorrowing wife, sons, mother, sisters, brothers, mother‑in‑law, brothers‑in‑law, sisters‑in‑law, nephews, nieces, wider family circle and many friends.
Family flowers only please.
All further enquiries to J.J. McArdle & Sons, Funeral Directors, 37 Thomas Street, Armagh. Tel: 028 3752 2480.
