Late Michael Kelly passed on the wisdom of his knowledge to generations of Longford pupils

There was deep sorrow in the Ballymahon and Cashel area following the passing of the late Michael Kelly who was the retired Principal of St Matthews Primary School and who was deeply rooted in the life and culture of Ballymahon. 

Michael, in his 91st year, passed to eternal reward on Saturday, January 20, in the care of Thomond Lodge nursing home and surrounded by his loving family. 

Michael was predeceased by his sisters Mae and Úna and brother Dan, parents Elizabeth and Michael. He is survived by his beloved wife Carmel, sons and daughter Aidan, Áine, Phelim, Ultan and Fergal, daughters-in-law; Helena, Christina, Linda, Ciara, grandchildren; Oisín, Niamh, Siobhán, Izette, Ciara, Oscar, Ross and Ronan, great-grandchild Fia, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Michael was born in Newtowncashel and at a young age following a family bereavement went to live with relatives in Roscommon where he went to school.

His Gaelic football skills were recognised at an early age and he was a member of the Roscommon Minor team that won the 1951 All-Ireland final. 

Academically the young Michael got a place in St Patrick's College, Drumcondra and qualified as a primary teacher. It was there that he met his future wife Carmel. He continued playing football for Cashel and won a Longford junior championship medal in 1961.

Following marriage to Carmel they settled in Ballymahon and raised their family of four boys and a girl. Michael was promoted to school principal in Ballymahon, a position he held until his retirement. 

During that time generations of pupils received the wisdom of his knowledge and learned numerous songs and to play the tin whistle. His interest in all things GAA. He coached the school teams and he also served as treasurer of the Club’s Minor Committee for nearly 20 years. Michael had a great interest in Irish culture and was heavily involved in Scor and indeed his love of set dancing saw him travel far and wide to Ceili's. 

His love of music and singing shone through and he was a member of the Innyside singers and St Matthew's church choir. He was also a keen cyclist. A lover of all things rural he spent his summer months rearing his turf and working on the family farm. In later years Michael enjoyed attending the Convent Day care centre.

Michael was above all things a family man and Carmel and himself enjoyed numerous sessions of music and song in the company of his children and grandchildren. That love of music was evident at his funeral where his family played some tunes. 

Michael's Funeral Mass took place on Wednesday, January 24 at St Matthew’s Church, Ballymahon and he was laid to rest afterwards in Shrule Cemetery.

Ballymahon GAA club extend its deepest sympathies to Carmel, Aine, Aidan, Phelim, Ultan and Fergal, his grandchildren and the extended family. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.