Passing of noted East Mayo historian and leading GAA figure
The late Cathal Henry
The Charlestown community is mourning the loss of one its leading lights.
Cathal Henry, of Barrack Street, Charlestown, had a passion for his hometown and was an oracle on the history of the area. The talented writer penned ‘The Charlestown Chronicles’ a treasured tome which captured the history of the East Mayo town.
Cathal was at the heart of community life and was a dedicated member of Charlestown GAA club. He held the positions of chair and secretary during his long association with the club.
Charlestown GAA paid a heartfelt tribute to one its greatest servants.
“Cathal was a terrific Gael who served the club with distinction over many years where he held the positions of secretary and chairman respectively.
He was a great servant who filled those positions with vision and ambition and always put the club first in all his dealings and interactions. He was a true Sarsfields member and supporter and savoured the many successes we enjoyed in our proud history.
Cathal was also a passionate Mayo man who followed the county’s fortunes through thick and thin and his support never wavered as he finally got to see Mayo end their 75-year quest for Sam just two short weeks ago,” said Charlestown GAA club.
“Cathal was also a noted historian who released a book “The Charlestown Chronicles’ to much acclaim as it contained a fascinating insight into the history of the town and its people and was a terrific read.
He was a mine of information on all things Charlestown and his love of the town remained strong right up until his final days,” the club added.
There were numerous online tributes following the news of Cathal’s passing.
“He was a gentleman in the true sense of the word who was always interested and involved in the community. Cathal will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of meeting him in this life,” read one message of sympathy.
“A true gentleman,” stated another.
Cathal will be greatly missed by his loving family, his wife Angela, son Desmond, daughter-in-law Alanna, brothers John (Margaret), Tony (Pamela), his four nieces and grandniece Saidbh, brother-in-law Tommie, many cousins, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Reposal takes place at Horkan’s Funeral Home, Charlestown, this evening (Thursday) from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Funeral Mass on Friday at 11am at St James’s Church, Charlestown followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
