There is sadness in Park-Ratheniska this week at the news of the death of Eddie Mansworth, a hugely popular member of the local GAA club and community.
In his 95th year, he was president of Park-Ratheniska GAA, and up to recent years was a regular warm and welcoming presence on the gate of the club grounds for the many matches hosted there.
He was a part of the club’s golden era in the 1950s, winning two senior football championships – back-to-back no less – in 1952 and 1953. He was the goalkeeper on those teams where he was joined by his brother Dick.
Indeed he has the distinction of wearing the keeper’s jersey in three senior football finals (also the 1956 loss to Annanough) and conceded no goal in any of those three games.
“A totemic figure in our club, much beloved and hugely admired by all, he will be sadly missed around the grounds and wider community,” said Park-Ratheniska in a statement.
“Small in stature but a giant of Park-Ratheniska is our Neddie.”
An iconic photo of Eddie was taken in 2021 with Eddie and some of the current players of the club during their intermediate football championship celebrations.
Eddie passed away in the Slieve Bloom Ward at the Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise.
He is predeceased by his loving wife Ann, his twin brother Mattie, his older brother Dick and sister-in-law Breda.
Dearly beloved uncle to Eamon, Paula, Olivia, Zita, Orlaith, John, Ray and Fergal, his sisters-in-law Margaret (Kelly), Bridie (Murphy), grandnephews Séamus, Ruaidhrí, Richard, Kian, Tadgh, Ruairí, Orán, Sean and Conor, great-grandnephew Tom, extended family, neighbours and his many friends.
Reposing at the Presentation Chapel, Stradbally from 3pm on Monday with Recital of the Rosary at 6pm and thereafter to The Holy Cross Church, Ratheniska for Reception Prayers at 7.30pm.
Requiem Mass on Tuesday in The Holy Cross Church, Ratheniska at 12 noon. Interment to follow in the adjoining cemetery.
Funeral Mass will be streamed live on the Holy Cross Church, Ratheniska Webcam, https://www.portlaoiseparish.ie/ratheniska-webcam/
