Tributes have poured in this morning after the passing of a “remarkable woman” and “true Rangers’ legend”.
Crossmaglen Rangers club legend Margaret McConville, sadly passed away yesterday (Tuesday).
An honorary President of Crossmaglen Rangers, Margaret dedicated her whole life to her local club. Aged 90, she was a true stalwart to the black and amber, holding many different roles over the years.
Alongside her sporting commitments, Margaret was “the head of the McConville house”. She was the beloved wife of the late Patsy and busy mother to seven children, including 2002 Armagh All-Ireland winner Oisín McConville. A large family, she also had 21 grandchildren, including Co Armagh players, Oisín and Rian O’Neill and ten great-grand children.
Paying tribute, Cross Rangers GFC said it was with the “heaviest of hearts” that they were announcing her passing, adding “…someone who inspired us, who supported and guided us and who dedicated her whole life to the black and amber.
“Holding many different roles over the years, she was hardworking, diligent and passionate. We will never see the likes of her again.
“Rest in peace to our esteemed honorary president, Margaret McConville. We thank you for your long and dedicated service, it will never be forgotten.”
Hundreds of tributes have poured in this morning already across social media, honouring how remarkable of a lady she was.
One person said: “The world this morning is a much lesser place. Margaret McConville died yesterday evening. 90 years gracing us all with her decency, kindness, empathy and love. There was plenty of humour too.
“The head of the ever-growing McConvillle family. Living in difficult times, she raised a brilliant large family who made her proud everyday. Lost a big son Thomas, didn’t blame anyone. Margaret was cut from different cloth. Crossmaglen, Armagh & the GAA. There will never be another like her. Quite simply, a legend”
A familiar face throughout the GAA world, many clubs from all over have shared their sympathies, including Madden Raparees, St Pauls GFC Lurgan, Armagh Harps, Granemore GFC, O’Connells GAC Tullysaran, TírnanÓg GAA and many more.
Paul McConville said: “Very sad news. Any reporter who went to cover a Cross or Armagh game there over the past 20-30 will have got a taste of Margaret’s warm hospitality, with a cup of tea and a bun. Condolences to the whole McConville family and wider Crossmaglen community. Few people embodied a GAA club more than Margaret McConville. Suaimhneas síoraí dá hanam.”
Another post read: “I am saddened to learn of Margaret’s passing. She was a true pioneer for women in GAA clubs everywhere, leading the way through her dedication, kindness and selfless commitment. Always helpful, never one for fuss, and accommodating to everyone, she made a lasting impact on so many.
“Margaret was a wonderful ambassador for our club and a true friend to so many. Her kindness, generosity, warmth and unwavering support made a lasting impression on everyone whose lives she touched. She gave so much of herself to our club and was always ready with a welcoming smile her presence will be greatly missed. May her gentle soul rest in peace. One Life One Club.”
All club activities are suspended until further notice.
A death notice describes her as the beloved wife of the late Patsy RIP. Loving mother of Anne (Conroy), Mairead (Finnegan), Jarlath, Jim, Dora (O’Neíll), Sean, Oisin and the late Thomas and baby Patrick RIP, Mother in law of Brian, Paddy, Geraldine, Michelle, Gareth, Tina & Darina. Sister of John and Jeanette (O’Callaghan) and the late Maura, Annie, Kathleen, James, Fr Pat, Gene, Tommy and Brian RIP and devoted Granny to her 21 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
The family welcome visitors to their home at 76 Dundalk Road, Crossmaglen, BT35 9HL on Wednesday and Thursday between 12 noon and 9pm (parking available at St Joseph’s High School).
Her Funeral will be held on Friday August 7, leaving her home at 10.20am to St Patrick’s Church Crossmaglen arriving for Requiem Mass at 11am.
Donations in lieu if desired to Evora Hospice.
“Come on the Rangers is the cry of every girl and boy. Each hero of the past, we all remember, to Crossmaglen, they’re true and to Armagh football too. Up the Rangers, May god bless the black and amber”.
