Seánhadarealpassionforallthings carsandvolunteeredwithSt. Brides
THE death has taken place, at the age of 53, of Seán Clifford, Carrickmullen, Knockbridge, Dundalk.
He passed away peacefully in the Mater Hospital on 2 August, 2017, surrounded by his family, after an unsuccessful heart transplant operation.
Seán was born on 28 April, 1964; one of two sons of Maura and Kenneth Clifford, Cox’s Demesne, who predeceased him.
After attending the De La Salle primary and secondary schools, he worked in Weyenberg, the American-owned shoe company, located on Coe’s Road, Dundalk.
Seán then established his own carpet-cleaning business, and subsequently worked as a panel-beater.
Given that profession, it was perhaps no surprise that working on cars was also his main hobby. He had a real passion for all things cars related.
When not found in the garage, Seán loved to spend his time working in the garden and maintaining the family home to his high standards.
Although originally from Clan na Gael country in Dundalk, Seán went on to make an impact with St. Bride’s GFC, after moving to the Knockbridge area in 1994.
He was very much involved with the club as a mentor from under-age to adult level, and also served on the committee and helped with numerous fundraisers. His proudest moment was being involved with the Minor champions in 2011.
Seán, a great family man, was married to Marie (nee McKenna, Crossmaglen), and together they had two children.
Shane is a schoolteacher in Clogherhead, and Sarah a student. As a proud father he continually encouraged both his children in all aspects of their lives be it school or football and would always support them.
Seán is survived by his wife, Marie; son, Shane; daughter, Sarah; brother, Kenneth; brothers-inlaw, sisters-in-law, three aunts, nieces, nephews, wide circle of cousins, relatives and friends.
After reposing at his home, Seán’s remains were removed to St. Mary’s Church, Knockbridge, where the funeral Mass was celebrated by Fr. Paddy Rushe.
Also present was Fr. Martin McVeigh, Clogherhead, and Fr. Gerry Campbell.
Son, Shane gave the eulogy, and also delivered the first reading. Seán’s daughter, Sarah did the second reading.
The responsorial psalm was sung by Sally McKenna; and the prayers of the faithful led by Marie Cooney, Kenneth Clifford, Caroline Brady, Niall McKenna and Siobhán McKenna.
Gifts symbolising Seán’s life were brought to the altar by Mary Conroy, Laurene Brady, Bernie McKenna, Kathy McKenna, Leona McKenna and Melissa McKenna.
These included a family photo; a St. Bride’s jersey and a minor championship medal won by one of the teams Seán coached; a spray gun from his garage, representing his profession and love of cars; and a Christy Moore CD, as he was a big fan of the singer-songwriter.
Gráinne Campion sang ‘Ave Maria’, and the ceremony was also enhanced by the local church choir.
Burial took place in the adjoining cemetery.