OBITUARY
NED Flynn, Clasadonna, Youghal, was a larger-than-life character; he possessed that unique quality of being able to ‘mix it’ in the most austere forum of the District Court or socially enjoying the jar in the hostelries of East Cork and West Waterford.
Ned was really at his best in the sporting arena.
He was knowledgeable in most areas of sport, though he really excelled when the conversation drifted towards greyhounds and horses.
He had a phenomenal power of recall, which is of immense benefit to the participants in this field, and more especially if one is wanting to have a wager.
Indeed, nothing gave Ned more enjoyment than the annual trio to Cheltenham, which he would undertake with his friends from all over, of which there were many.
Ned loved everything about Cheltenham – the racing, the socialising, the betting ring and the craic. Above all, he really enjoyed being with people whom he regarded as friends.
Ned, a native of Lombardstown, never lost touch with his roots.
He loved to speak of the successes of Kilshannig football teams, of which he had been a player.
He was especially proud of his brother, Johnny, who played for the Cork senior football team and who had the honour of captaincy of that team.
Johnny also donned the Munster jersey in the Railway Cup competitions, no mean achievements considering the competition that prevailed at the time.
Ned, or as he preferred, Eamon Ó Floinn, was a good man. He did not judge others. He was tolerant, kind and generous. He was the ultimate ‘gentle giant’, with a heart to match.
Best of all of Ned’s qualities was his love of life.
He never got the solitude thing. He was at his best surrounded by a large circle of admirers – holding court and engaging in a fiery argument – a ball of malt in hand, horses in the run and, of course, Ned’s horse always won.
Ned is survived by his wife, Péig; his daughters, Bríd and Áine; son, John; and was predeceased by his late son, Brian, sadly taken at the age of 11.
Ned will be missed by his brother, John; and sister, Nora O’Sullivan. He was predeceased by his sister, Margaret McClernon (Canada).
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.