DONIE LYONS R.I.P.
News of the death of Donie Lyons, 63 Lower Cork Street, Mitchelstown which occurred on Sunday, was received with a great sense of sadness throughout the entire area by all who knew Donie for the true gentleman that he was.
He was a life-long supporter of all things GAA. He was Vice-President of Mitchelstown GAA Club and served as treasurer for a total of 25 years and four as secretary. On the playing field, he was part of the Mitchelstown minor team who retained the North Cork minor A championship in 1962.
His commitment and service to the club was immense. Paying tribute to him, the club posted on their website: ‘CLCG Baile Mhisteala was truly saddened to hear earlier of the passing of our Vice President and great friend Donie Lyons. Donie also served the club for a number of years as both Secretary and Treasurer and will be missed by all in the club. A great clubman and a true Gael.’
Liam Cusack, who (in GAA terms) soldiered alongside Donie for many years, spoke highly of the man as being ‘a brilliant treasurer, extremely intelligent, generous to a fault and wonderful company’.
“Being an avid reader who possessed a huge collection of books, it was always a joy to be in Donie’s company. He was an absolute fountain of knowledge where local history was concerned and his loss to the town is incalculable,” Liam said.
An ex-creamery manager by profession, Donie was predeceased by his wife Joan (nee O’Donovan), a native of Galbally.
Friends and neighbours did the now customary ‘stand out’ to pay tribute as his cortege travelled the short journey to the parish church on Wednesday. Following Requiem Mass, Donie was laid to rest in Brigown New Cemetery.
To his sons Daniel and James, his devoted grandchildren Jayden, Emma, Danny and Jack, sister Maura (Barry - Glencairn) and brother Liam (Thurles), his extended family and his many close friends, we extend our deepest sympathy.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.