Castleisland mourns legend of the Desmonds

Jimmy Greaney, 1942 - 2020

JIMMY Greaney epitomised everything that is so heart-warming about the human spirit.

He was truly one of nature’s gentlemen, and that was so evident in his contribution to his beloved Castleisland Desmond’s.

He was totally committed; unselfish with unmatched generosity. Jimmy wouldn’t ask a member to undertake a task that he was not prepared to do himself.

He lead from the front and by example. He served the club for decades in many varied roles.

He was a delegate to the North Kerry board. He was a selector of the Junior team, with Sean Brennan (RIP), that won a county championship. He was a valued member of the senior management team with Dave Geaney and Billy Lyons (RIP) that reached the county final only to lose narrowly to Dr. Croke’s but won the club championship in the same year.

He served as Vice-Chair and Chairman of the club on several occasions and oversaw many developments within the club, such as the installation of the current floodlight system. In recent years he was elected at every AGM as Vice President. He had a capacity to bring together the various strands within the club with a clear vision, sincere nature and affable personality.

For Jimmy, difficulties were turned into opportunities.

None of this could have been achieved without fundraising, and Jimmy worked tirelessly to do so. He sold Lotto tickets, brought in memberships and contributions from every quarter.

Jimmy made the most extraordinary contribution to Desmond’s, and his legacy will long endure. We extend our sincerest sympathy to Sheila; and his family Katherine, Anna Marie, Bertie and Margaret, who were unstinting in their support. They were the bedrock of his life.

May he rest in peace

The late Jimmy Greaney