Passing of Ballina and Mayo GAA legend Sean Healy widely mourned
Sean Healy (RIP).
There is great sadness in Ballina and throughout the Mayo GAA family across the county and around the world following the passing of Sean Healy, Bohernasup, Ballina.
He enjoyed a lifelong and storied connection with his local club Ballina Stephenites, making contributions both on and off the playing field. No matter what role he played, Sean was a leader, mentor and ambassador for the club.
Wearing the green and red of his hometown club, he won a Mayo Senior League Medal in 1971 and went on to captain his side to the McKane Cup in 1973 and replicated this feat with St Pat’s in 1975. Sean also proudly won a Mayo Masters Championship medal in 1977.
After hanging up his boots, Sean got involved in the executive level of the club and was committed to ensuring its future for the generations to come. He served as Ballina Stephenites chairman on three separate occasions, from 1975 to 1978, from 1984 to 1986 and from 1993 to 1996 and was the first to hold the role a record three times.
Sean also served as Club President, guiding them through crucial periods such as the annual GAA congress held in Ballina in 1978 and the club’s historic tour of the USA in 1980. He also acted as Honorary FÁS supervisor for the club and represented Stephenites on the Cross Border Initiative Committee in 2000, showing his dedication to the wider GAA community.
Ballina Stephenites released a statement expressing their sadness at the loss of a ‘true giant’ of the club.
“Sean’s leadership, vision, and tireless commitment made him a cornerstone of our club. His influence shaped generations of players and members, and his name will forever be synonymous with the club he loved so dearly.” “He will be remembered not only for his many titles and roles but for his unwavering passion, integrity, and the immense pride he carried in wearing and representing the Stephenites crest.
“Seans passing marks the loss of one of Ballina Stephenites’ true giants. His legacy will live on in every team that takes the field, every young player who dreams of success, and every member who works to keep the Stephenites spirit alive.” He served as the club’s representative on the Mayo County Board and was later appointed History Officer of the Mayo County Board. Mayo GAA offered their condolences following his passing.
“Mayo GAA are saddened to hear of the passing of Sean Healy. We would like to express our sincere sympathy to Sean’s wife Betty and his children at this difficult time.” Sean was the beloved husband of Elizabeth and loving father of Maria, Lena, John, Edel, Edward and Lorcan. He will be sadly missed by his wife, sons, daughters, brother Phillip, sisters Bernie and Eileen, grandchildren, sons and daughters-in-law, nephews, nieces, wider extended family, friends and all within Ballina Stephenites.
Reposing at McGowan’s Funeral Home, Ballina (F26 V274) on Tuesday evening from 5pm with removal at 7pm to St. Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina.
Requiem Mass on Wednesday morning at 11:30am followed by burial in Leigue cemetery, Ballina.
Sean’s funeral Mass will be live streamed at www.ballinaparish.org.
