Portlaoise GAA pays tribute to club's 'heart and soul'

The late Andy Molloy. Photo: Portlaoise GAA
Portlaoise GAA has paid heartfelt tribute to legendary club member Andy Molloy, who passed away on Monday in his 86th year.
The club said today that it was deeply saddened by the passing of a true gentleman, who was a cherished and dedicated member for decades.
A native of Portlaoise who made Mountmellick his home, Andy was involved in countless community and sporting activities that included both Portlaoise and Laois GAA, the Portlaoise Christmas Lights committee and the Mountmellick Traders’ Association.
In a post on social media today, Portlaoise GAA said: ‘Andy was the heart and soul of many club activities, most notably running the club lotto for over 30 years alongside the late Phil O’Keeffe and Jas Reilly. His commitment never wavered, ensuring the draw went ahead week in and week out, raising vital funds for the club he loved.
‘Andy was also the best car park attendant any club could ever ask for. Come hail, rain, or snow, he was there, collecting at the gate, always with a quick wit and a warm welcome (so long as you paid!).
‘His legendary dedication even extended to the skies - famously charging JP McManus €5 for landing his helicopter on the pitch, a story that perfectly captures his unshakable commitment to treating everyone the same.
‘A true gentleman, Andy’s presence will be sorely missed by his old comrades and fellow club members. His tireless work, warm spirit and unwavering loyalty to the club leave a lasting legacy.
‘Our deepest sympathies go to his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest easy, Andy - your place in the history of Portlaoise GAA is forever secure.
.’Death notice as follows:
Andy Molloy, Irishtown, Mountmellick and formerly of Mountrath Road, Portlaoise died peacefully on Monday 10 March, surrounded by his loving family, in his 86th year following a brief illness.
Predeceased by his parents Andrew and Josephine, brother Seamus, nephews Andrew and James.
Andy is survived by his brother John and sister Mary, brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, daughters Dorothy and Yvonne.
Andy will be sadly missed by his adoring wife Julie and their children Andrew, his wife Fiona, Jennifer and her husband John, Robert and Linda and her partner Vinnie, his grandchildren Seán, Ronan, Saoirse, Lucy, Caolán and Róisín, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbours and a huge circle of friends.
May he rest in peace.
Reposing in Moloney’s Funeral Home, Mountmellick on Wednesday from 5pm, with recital of the Rosary at 6.30pm.
Removal from his home on Thursday at 10.20am to St. Joseph’s Church for Requiem Mass at 11am and burial after in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
House strictly private at all times.
Sympathisers can express their sympathy on the online condolence section of RIP.ie.