Mayo mourns Shane Freeman - an inspiring man who leaves a lasting legacy

SHANE Freeman was one of the best.

His passing leaves a huge void in the lives of his beloved family and community, not just in his native Kiltimagh, but much further afield, with a life that touched many people in a positive way.

Shane, almost universally known as Peach, inspired many people, young and old, through his work as a teacher, his involvement in sport, his courage in the face of illness, but more importantly for his devotion and love of his beloved wife Orla and their three boys, Ruairi, Darragh and Eoghan.

Family is what mattered most and Peach fought the brave fight to be with them, leaving a legacy of love and wonderful memories that will be forever cherished.

Gentleman is the word being used to describe Shane since his passing on Tuesday, in the wonderful care of the Mayo Hospice, with Orla, his rock, as ever, at his side.

Always with a smile on his face, a good word for all, Shane really was one in a million. Lucky are those who called him friend. His legacy and spirit will continue to shine bright.

Shane taught French and Business Studies at Sancta Maria College in Louisburgh, where he was held in great respect and affection by staff and students alike. He had a great rapport with young people and that carried through to the classroom.

In a tribute, the school said: “Shane has touched the lives of countless students and staff through his teaching of French, Business Studies and even Sign Language. His generosity, kindness and dedication will never be forgotten.

“Shane fought a brave battle with cancer over the past six years, facing it with courage and dignity. His loss is felt deeply across our school community.”

A talented sportsperson, Shane inspired and encouraged many young people, be it on the football pitch or golf course, giving of his time and talent as a coach.

Ballyhaunis Golf Club, in a tribute, recalled his contribution and legacy: “Shane will always be remembered first and foremost as a great family man who was full of integrity and who never put himself first, but on the golf course had a fierce competitive spirit that made him one of the finest golfers in our county.

“Many will remember Shane winning the vital match in Oughterard to seal our first and only Connacht Shield title and also down the years winning many captains and Presidents prizes.

“Shane served the club the last few years as our Junior Convenor and spent many hours coaching the young boys and girls every summer. Shane also served with Golf Ireland as a selector on the Connacht Boys Under 18 team and he took great pride in the achievements of John William and his own son Ruairi.

“The fight and determination that Shane showed us all the last few years is a true testament to his character. He will be sorely missed around the fairways of Coolnaha.”

Shane was a valued member of the Golf Ireland Connacht regional junior development committee and served two terms as a Connacht underage interprovincial team manager.

Golf Ireland, in a tribute, recalled Shane's 'infectious enthusiasm for golf, sport, and life'.

“His impressive golf game saw him play off a handicap of 2.0, whilst also taking on the roles of both coach and mentor on the sidelines of many a soccer pitch. A proud Liverpool fan and one who certainly never walked alone.

“In his beloved Ballyhaunis Golf Club, Shane will be remembered as the driving force behind the resurgence of an underage programme that has experienced enormous growth over the last decade, with many players nurtured by Shane going on to represent Ballyhaunis, Connacht, and Ireland.

“Outside of sport, Shane was a secondary school teacher and dedicated much of his time to advocating for many worthy charities and causes across Mayo and further afield. The foundations laid by Shane have paved the way for those who will follow and carry on his extraordinary contributions.”

Kiltimagh Knock United also paid tribute to a beloved coach and player: “Shane brought professionalism and great integrity combined with fun and a competitive edge to the club and the game.

“He played senior football and masters for the club before coaching at underage. Always supportive and encouraging the young players in training and games, Shane helped organise some fun blitzes, evenings of Lads v Dads and a memorable trip to Sligo Rovers.

“He was a lifelong supporter of everything KK and regularly came to games and events.

“He left a great legacy in his wonderful family and great memories for all who played in his teams in the club.”

Shane, of Altbawn Crescent, Kiltimagh, and formerly of Corrdarragh, is deeply mourned and forever loved by his heartbroken wife Orla (née Gibney), his three treasured children Ruairi, Darragh and Eoghan, his parents Margaret and Chris, brothers and sisters-in-law David and Sharon, Barry and Charlotte, Mark and Anca, sisters-in-law Tara, Helen and Yuni, brothers-in-law Paul, Noel and Tony, nieces Breeze, Isla, Mia, Ruby, Niamh and Nuala, nephews Oisín, Ríain, Conor and Niall, his aunties Stella Laffey and Mai Higgins, cousins, extended family, friends, former colleagues, golfing associates and the wider community of Kiltimagh, to whom sympathy is extended on their great loss.

He was predeceased by his parents-in-law Nancy and Tony Gibney, sister-in-law Susan Gibney, baby nephew Jack, aunt Ina Edwards, uncles Tom and Joe Freeman, Tom McNicholas and Michael Laffey.

Reposing is at O’Hora’s Funeral Home, Kiltimagh, on Friday from 5.30 to 8 p.m. Following funeral Mass in the Church of the Holy Family, Kiltimagh, on Saturday at 12 noon, he will be laid to rest in Kilkinure Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.