The late Jimmy Greaney epitomised everything that is so heart warming about the human spirit.
A tribute by Castlerisland Desmonds GAA Club
He was truly one of nature’s gentlemen, which is evident by his immense contribution to his beloved Castleisland Desmonds GAA Club.
The respect and affection within the club for him was reflected by the large guard of honour at his removal lead by Tim Murphy, Chairman of the Kerry County Board.
Utterly Committed
Jimmy was utterly committed, unselfish with an unmatched generosity. He wouldn’t ask a club member to undertake a task that he was not prepared to do himself. He lead from the front and by example.
He served the club in so many various positions. He was a delegate to the North Kerry board for many years, and he was held in high regard for his diplomacy skills and integrity.
He was a selector of the junior team with Sean Brennan, RIP that won a county championship in 1990.
Senior Management Team
The following year, in 1991 he was part of the senior management team, with Dave Geaney and Billy Lyons RIP, which was narrowly defeated by Dr. Crokes in the county final but gaining some compensation by winning the senior club championship later that year.
In 2010, he was again successful, with another generation of players, winning the Barrett Cup.
Time hadn’t diminished his ability to communicate and gain the respect of the younger generations of players, who always seemed to respond to his calls to action.
Large Scale Developments
Jimmy was to serve as vice chairman and chairman of the club for many years. He was actively involved in many large scale developments which included major improvements to the playing pitches and the installation of the current lighting system.
He had an extraordinary capacity to reach out to the various strands of the club, young and old, together with a clear vision, sincere nature and affable personality.
Jimmy believed that every difficulty could become an opportunity.
Tireless Worker
Nothing would have been achieved without fundraising and Jimmy worked tirelessly as he sold lotto tickets and brought in memberships and contributions from all over.
Jimmy Greaney made the most extraordinary contribution to his club and his legacy will long endure.
We extend our sincerest sympathy to Sheila, his children Katherine, Anna Marie, Bertie and Margaret who were unstinting in their support. They were the bedrock of his life.
Jimmy (77) died earlier this month on January 5th.
May he rest in peace, Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.
