Mayo in mourning over death of former football star

The death of Eamonn Conway, Carrabeag, Newport Road, and formerly of Ballinaglough, Snugboro, Castlebar, has cast a shadow of sorrow and loss across the community at large.

The deceased, a member of the staff of Conway Motors in the town, was a popular and widely respected personality.

Eamonn played distinction for Snugboro United for many years, inspiring the club to some of its most memorial successes.

He also starred at underage level for Castlebar Celtic.

Both clubs have paid tributes to the deceased on their social media pages.

In a poignant tribute, Snugboro United stated: "Eamonn played for our club for many years, and when he played, he played with passion for his beloved Boro.

"That passion undoubtedly came from the deep roots the Conway family have in our club.

"From the very early days, when his father Edward was heavily involved in the formation of the club, right up to today with Eamonn’s brother Padraic serving as the current chairperson, the Conway family’s commitment has remained strong.

"Eamonn’s sisters, Rosemary, Tracy and Gillian, all on the Snugboro masters ladies team and are also involved in coaching, as are his in-laws Caroline (Conway), Declan (Lavelle) and Mark (McGreal). His uncle Declan, a former player, is set to take charge of the junior team for the coming season.

"The Conway family’s involvement in our club is immense, and that deep association is set to continue.

"There is no doubt that Eamonn’s spirit will live on through his family and all who knew him.

"We are inviting as many of our past and present members and friends as possible to turn out in your club colours to give Eamo a colourful Boro send-off from the Church of the Holy Rosary in Castlebar at the conclusion of his funeral Mass on Saturday.

"Rest in peace, Eamo."

A tribute by Castlebar Celtic said: "All of us at the club are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Eamonn Conway, who played his youth football with our club and was a cherished part of the Celtic family.

"Eamonn will be remembered fondly for his talent on the pitch, his dedication and the warm, genuine spirit he brought to every training session and match. He made many friends here, and his loss will be felt by all who knew him.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to Eamonn’s heartbroken family—his brother Padraic, sisters Rosemary, Tracy, Gillian and Deirdre, and all his extended family, neighbours, his many friends and all at Snugboro United. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time."

Castlebar Mitchels also joined the paying tribute to Eamonn. He played with the club at underage level.

Predeceased by his parents Edward and Teresa Conway and uncle-in-law Jimmy Munnelly, he is deeply regretted by his heartbroken family: brother Padraic, sisters Rosemary, Tracy, Gillian and Deirdre, sister-in-law Caroline, brothers-in-law, Declan, Ciaran, Mark and Tadhg, aunts Margaret (Dodo Munnelly), Maura and Helena, uncles P.J Conway and Declan, beloved nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts in-law, uncles in-law, neighbours, relatives and a large circle of friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their immeasurable loss.

Eamonn will repose at his brother Padraic’s residence, Ballinaglough, Snugboro (F23 NK87) on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m.

Removal on Saturday morning at 10.15 a.m. for Requiem Mass at 11.30 a.m. in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar.

Eamonn will be laid to rest afterwards in the New Cemetery, Castlebar.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.