CLYDA ROVERS legend, as a player and administrator, John Looney from Island Burnfort passed away recently.

The late John, who was in his 88th year, was very well known in Clyda Rovers GAA circles.

He was a retired haulier by occupation and was predeceased by his wife Peggy. 

A very popular member in the greater Mourneabbey area. He gave a lifetime of service to the GAA club, being a player with the Novice hurling side that won the first Divisional championship in 1955.

Down through the years he was physical trainer with the great teams in hurling and football during the 80s.

Clyda won four in a row JAFC titles as well as a County JAHC title in 1989. He served as club secretary on a number of occasions, his last being for a period in the 90s.

The late John was club President in 2013 and 2014. He was a delegate to the Avondhu Board for a number of years.

There were many fundraising events held over the years and John was always to the fore with raffles and lotto tickets. He was selling raffle tickets going back to 1949.

The late John quietly gave many dedicated years to the Clyda Rovers Juvenile teams as a coach at all age groups.

He saw major development in the club grounds over the years.

He was a Clyda legend. As long as the name Clyda Rovers is mentioned, the name Johnny Looney will be spoken.

As long as the Black and Amber flag flies in around the houses in Mourneabbey, the name Johnny Looney will be spoken.

As long as a ball is kicked and a sliotar hit below in the pitch in Mourneabbey, the name Johnny Looney will be spoken. He gave many dedicated years to Clyda Rovers Juvenile as a coach with various age groups.

Club jerseys were laid out on the wall as a mark of respect to one of their beloved ones.

John’s funeral was held in private in line with HSE guidelines relating to public gatherings during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Funeral Mass was held in Burnfort Church on April 17 with interment to the adjoining cemetery. A Memorial Mass to celebrate John’s life will be held at a later date.

The club will also honour his passing at a later date.

To his sons Barry, Sean, brother Michael, sisters Sheila, Josephine, daughter in law Mariza, extended family, neighbours and many friends we tender our sincere sympathy.