Club pays tribute to Mayo rugby legend

WARM tributes are being paid to Martin Jennings, Chestnut Lodge, Ballinrobe, and formerly of Main Street, who passed away suddenly at his residence surrounded by his loving family on Saturday.

One of life's gentlemen, Martin was a fun and friendly person who had many friends.

He was a family man and respected business person, founder of Martin Jennings Wholesale Limited, and, outside the home, his second family was Ballinrobe Rugby Club, where he gave devoted service over many years.

The club has paid the following tribute to Martin: Ballinrobe RFC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of one of our all-time greats, Martin Jennings. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Ruth, Anne and Martin’s extended family and friends at this difficult time.

Martin was not just a member of this club - he was a cornerstone of it.

Martin was pivotal in the reforming of Ballinrobe RFC in the early 1970s, and his determination, perseverance, and belief in what this club could become shaped our history in ways that can never be overstated. During this time, when the future of the club was far from secure, he took it upon himself to seek out players from the local area, ensuring jerseys were filled, fixtures were fulfilled, and the spirit of rugby in Ballinrobe stayed alive. Without his drive, Ballinrobe RFC would simply not be where it is today.

Martin served this club in almost every role imaginable. He captained the club during the 1975–76 season, leading from the front and helping set standards that would carry Ballinrobe RFC forward. A decade later, he continued that service when he became Club President for the 1985–86 season, guiding the club with the same dedication, respect, and passion he showed on the field.

After his playing days, Martin took up the whistle and clipboard, becoming the driving force on the sideline. During his time as coach, he created history by leading Ballinrobe RFC to back-to-back Connacht Junior Cup titles in 1990 and 1991 – a remarkable achievement that stands as one of the proudest moments in our club’s story. Those victories were a testament to his leadership, belief, and unwavering commitment to the jerseys and the players who wore them.

Martin was a servant of Ballinrobe RFC in the truest and greatest sense. His legacy lives on in every team that takes the field, in every young player who pulls on the jersey, and in every step forward the club continues to make.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Martin was predeceased by his first wife Mercy and second wife Rosemary, parents Wilson and Norah and brother Liam.

His memory will be forever treasured by his loving daughters, Ruth and Anne. He will be sadly missed by his sister Patricia and brother John. Martin is also survived by his sons-in-law, Martin and Andrew, and cherished grandchildren, Lauren, Sophie, Ava, Lara, Jack and Shay, his sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephew, neighbours and friends, and is lovingly remembered by Rosemary’s daughters, Aisling and Michelle, their husbands Derek and Niall and their children Michael, Harry, Will and Paddy.

Reposing is at St. Joseph’s Funeral Home in Ballinrobe on Tuesday from 4.30 to 7 p.m., with removal to his residence. Martin’s funeral Mass will take place at St. Mary’s Church, Ballinrobe, on Wednesday at 11 a.m., proceeding afterwards to Shannon Crematorium for private cremation.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.