Mayo mourns passing of much-loved GAA personality Austin Garvin

The death has taken place of Austin Garvin, Knock Road, Claremorris.

Austin died peacefully yesterday in the exceptional care of the Mayo Hospice, surrounded by his loving family.

The deceased was a widely-known and respected personality in Mayo GAA circles.

He was coach of the Mayo minor team that won the All-Ireland title in 1971 and subsequently served a term as manager.

In a tribute, Mayo GAA extended sympathy to the family of the deceased.

"Austin most notably managed the Mayo minors throughout the 1970s to Connacht and All-Ireland titles," the statement added.

A long-serving member Claremorris GAA Club and Claremorris Golf Club, news of his passing has evoked a huge sense of loss across the county, such was the high regard in which he was held by everybody who knew him.

After retiring from his career with Telecom, he became a freelance journalist for the Mayo News, covering matches, Claremorris Municipal District meetings and other events across south Mayo.

Many warm tributes are being paid to him on the condolences pages of the death notices website, RIP.ie.

Wrote Seán O'Dowd, Galway, and formerly of Ardroe: "A legend of not alone Claremorris football but also Mayo football has past.

"Thank you Austin for your influence on me, not only as a a player under your coaching but also how you taught us how to behave as young men back in the day.

"My sincere condolences to all of Austin’s family."

Sinead Halligan, Charlestown, stated: "Austin will be truly missed around GAA pitches throughout the county.

"An absolute gentleman who you'd love to see coming at any game for a good chat. May he rest in peace."

Predeceased by his parents, Philip and Mary and his sister Kathleen, he is survived by his wife Mary (née O’Dwyer), sons Paul and Adrian, daughter Deirdre, brother Tom, Michael and Philip.

Austin is also sadly missed by his grandchildren Sophie, Leah, Dylan, Jacob and Seth, daughter-in-law Cora, Paul’s partner Imelda and his wide circle of relatives, neighbours and friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the Garvin family on their loss.

Austin’s remains will repose at Gilligan’s Funeral Home, Market Square, Claremorris (F12YP74) from 6 p.m on Friday until 8p.m.

His remains will arrive to St. Colman’s Church, Claremorris for Funeral Mass on Saturday at 1 p.m. with burial afterwards in St. Colman’s Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.