Laois tributes to former Portlaoise AFC coach - 'one of nature's gentlemen'

Tributes have been led for former senior team manager Christy Cahill by Portlaoise AFC, the club he managed with such distinction in the mid-1980s.

Christy Cahill, St Brigid's Place, Portlaoise and late of Orchard, Timahoe, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Beloved husband of Lily, he was a loving father to Geraldine Lynam, Christy, Tony and Liz Traynor. Cherished grandfather to Jenna, Stephanie, Christopher and Paraig and great-grandchildren Sadie and Florence. He is survived by sons-in-law Colm and John, daughter-in-law Christine, Jenna's husband Shaun, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces, great neighbours and friends, and former colleagues in Shaws and Eircom.

"To say that Christy played a part in one of the most successful parts of the club's history is an understatement. In the mid eighties Christy took over management of our senior team who were struggling in the Dublin AUL league at the time. Christy's son, Christy junior was one of our major players, hence Christy getting involved," Portlaoise AFC wrote in a social media post.

"Christy brought a level of professionalism and organisation to the squad, personally contacting players to strengthen the squad. Off the field Christy was also active, getting sponsorship for playing gear and the club's first tracksuits for the senior team," the club said. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Success on the field followed shortly afterwards, with Christy guiding the team to the AUL Division 2 title in 1989 followed by the Premier C title the following season. The step to Intermediate football followed, leading to the unforgettable run in the FAI Senior Cup, the first time in the club's history.

"The victory over Home Farm and a narrow defeat to Kilkenny City is still remembered fondly. On top of this Christy guided the team to the semi-final of the prestigious FAI intermediate cup, along with an Leinster Senior Cup run that was ended by a Brian Kerr managed St Patrick's Athletic who were League of Ireland champions at the time," the club outlined.

"Christy went way above his role as manager, the club said, looking after his players' welfare off the field in a private manner also.

"Without exaggeration Christy was the driving force behind this golden period in the club's history, and many of us are forever grateful to Christy. Christy's grandson , Padraig is currently part of our senior teams. Sincere condolences to all the Cahill family. Ar dheis De go raibh an ainm dilis," the club said.

Tributes have also poured in on www.Rip.ie with the common word used to describe him was "gentleman". His wide connections were evident in the many tributes from all around the country. 

“Sincere sympathy to the Cahill family on the sad passing of Christy. I worked with him in the telephone exchange back in the day. He was a true gentleman. May he rest in peace," wrote Marguerite Burke.

“Our sincere condolences on the passing of Christy. A great neighbour in St Brigid’s, a former colleague in Eircom and a hard working committed member of Portlaoise AFC. Rest in Peace Christy,” wrote Marie (Nee Rowe) and Chris Nestor.

“Sincere sympathy to all the Cahill family on the sad passing of Christy. It was alway so lovely to meet him. Very fond memories of Christy in the telephone exchange many years ago. May his gentle soul Rest in Hevenly Peace,” wrote Ann Cashen. 

“Deepest Sympathy to the Cahill family on the passing of Christy. One of nature's gentlemen, always a kind word or a wry witty quip. Will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in Peace Christy,” wrote Mick Flynn, Kilcock.

His remains reposed at Keegan's funeral home followed by Requiem Mass in SS Peter & Paul's Church with interment afterwards at SS Peter and Paul's Cemetery on the Stradbally Road.