The untimely death of an Offaly GAA club member has “sent chills” through residents

Tributes have been pouring in this week following the untimely death of an Offaly GAA club legend.

John ‘Bruce’ Hannon died at Tallaght Hospital on Monday with his beloved local GAA club St Brigid’s in Croghan, Co Offaly, paying an emotional tribute to him on Wednesday.

They said: “As news of the untimely death of John “Bruce” Hannon reached us, members and friends of the St. A chill went down the spine of Brigid’s GAA and the entire Croghan community.

“Bruce, as John was affectionately known, was a brilliant clubman who dedicated a lifetime of hard work and dedication to our small, proud club.

“Bruce, a fearless defender, won the famous blue and white No. 2 shirt for over a decade, winning the Offaly Intermediate Football Championships in 1984 and 1990, when his no-nonsense defending was a joy to watch.

“When his playing career ended, Bruce made a smooth transition into the club’s administration, serving as treasurer for many years until ill health forced him to leave in 2010. As his health improved, he returned to take an active part in our club and served as vice-president until his death,” the club added.

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“He carried out small jobs around the club that often go unnoticed but are essential, leaving a void that will never be filled.
Bruce lived his short life to the fullest, always ready for a session and some madness. A music lover, he was the first person on the dance floor when the music started playing.

“A talented carpenter and cook, his craftsmanship can be seen in many homes in the area. He was also the janitor at our local school, Scoil Bhríde, and had a great relationship with the staff, children and parents. Many people have had red eyes at school in recent days.

“Bruce loved his community and was always willing to help his neighbors when asked. He will be deeply and sadly missed by his wife Mary, daughter Tierna, son Shay, adored grandson Brogan, son-in-law Rob, daughter-in-law law Sarah and siblings Michael, Maura, Seamus, Peadar, Bríd, Aidan, Ann and Martin as well as extended family, relatives and friends, we express our sincere condolences to them.

“May the angels in heaven welcome you and may your gentle soul rest in peace. The true blue legend of St. Bridget. Thanks Bruce for years of great memories. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

Funeral organization:

Jan’s funeral mass will take place on Thursday at 12:00 at the church of St. Brigid in Croghan, with burial to follow in Croghan Cemetery.