Passing of history-making Mayo Ladies player is deeply mourned
The late Valerie McNally (née Collins). Pic: Burrishoole GAA Facebook
There has been great sadness following the passing of a former Mayo Ladies footballer and native of Newport, Co Mayo in the UK.
Valerie McNally (née Collins), Kiltarnaught, Newport, Co Mayo and Milton Keynes, England passed away peacefully with her family by her side in the gentle care of the staff of The Willen Hospice in Milton Keynes yesterday morning.
Valerie was part of the historic 1976 team which was the first Mayo Ladies team to win the Connacht Senior Championship in the second year of the competition’s running, defeating Galway in the final.
She was also part of the Connacht side that represented the province in inter-provincial football that year, one of six players representing Mayo in a defeat against Leinster.
Valerie also proudly represented her local club Burrishoole, who paid the following tribute to her.
“It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of Valerie (Collins) McNally, a former Burrishoole player and a proud Mayo and Connacht footballer.”
“Valerie proudly represented Burrishoole, and her name is forever part of a remarkable chapter in the history of Mayo Ladies Football.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Valerie’s family, friends and all who knew her at this very sad time. May her gentle soul rest in peace.”
Valerie will be dearly missed by her husband Tom (Westport) and her children Michael, Mark, Rory and Marion and her grandchildren and her extended Collins and Mc Nally family members, friends and neighbours.
May she rest in peace.
