A south Armagh community is mourning the loss of a second well-known and respected member in less than a week.
Denis (Dinny) Hollywood passed away peacefully on Saturday – just days after the loss of John Hopkins.
St Michael’s GFC led the tributes to to their club President and one of the key drivers in their reformation in the 1970s.
In a statement, the Club said: “It is with great sadness that the committee of St Michael’s GFC Newtownhamilton pass on the condolences of the entire club and wider community on the passing of our club President Dinny Hollywood.
“A simple statement at this time will in no way convey the work, commitment and service Dinny gave to St Michael’s GFC throughout his lifetime.
“Although Dinny first became involved in the GAA as a player on a parish team, it became apparent very quickly that Dinny’s heart lay in working towards the resurgence of a St Michael’s team in Newtownhamilton.
“As one of the key drivers in the reformation of St Michael’s in 1974, Dinny became a name synonymous with the club throughout Armagh county and beyond over the subsequent 45 years.
“As a manager of both senior and underage teams, a mentor, chairman, secretary and groundsman there was no role Dinny didn’t fill at some point over the last 45 years.
“On the field he was at the helm as manager when the Club broke through and won a league title in 1980 and a junior championship in 1987.
“In his capacity as an administrator he was instrumental in the purchase of the lands that are now home to the club’s playing field now.
“Although the club has enjoyed much success since its reformation it has also seen some lean and baron years and it was during these times that Dinny excelled as a constant presence whose sole motivation was the preservation and betterment of St Michael’s.
“A unique and committed Gael whose service and devotion to his club stands head and shoulders above his piers, Dinny devoted his life to his club. He will be truly missed and is irreplaceable to us all. Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam.”
Sean Quinn, through his Run for autism H.A.N.D. Facebook page, commented: “Dinny wasn’t just a football man and we all know how much football meant to him but he was someone who gave so much of his time to charity and special people.
“He was one of the first at every Run For Autism to lend a hand in what ever way he could and he helped take some of these special people to school and daycare; to this day staff, carers and clients still ask about Dinny and talk about his kindness to their people. Thank you Dinny, rest well our friend.”
A funeral notice for Dinny said he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.
He was husband of the late Eileen. Loving father to Kieran, Fintan, Damien, Paul and Denis. Son of the late Edward and Margaret and brother of the late Michael R.I.P.
Reposing at his home, 12 Cookes Crescent, Newtownhamilton, BT35 0BQ. Dinny’s funeral cortège will leave his late residence on Tuesday 28th July 2020 at 10.15am to St Michael’s Church, Newtownhamilton, for 11am requiem Mass. Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Due to current restrictions on public gatherings Dinny’s Mass will be celebrated in the presence of his family. Anyone who wishes to pay their respects may do so by lining the road from his late residence to St Michael’s Church, adhering to the social distancing guidelines.
Deeply regretted by his sons, daughters-in-law Anne, Jackie and Breda, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters Peggy, Patricia and Josie, nieces, nephews and entire family circle.
