The joy Christmas was tempered with the news of Mattie Murphy’s death.
Mattie who lived in Shanbally was truly one of life’s consummate gentlemen. His quite, pleasant and unassuming manner endeared him to all who were priviliged to know and work with him.
Born in Strawhall, between Raffeen and Monkstown, in the year 1930, he was married to his dear wife Gertie (Nee Ronayne) for 57 years. He had four in family, Joe, Pat, Eileen and Noel. With his family growing up along side the Shamrock playing pitch, the boys spent many happy hours there playing hurling and football. Mattie would take a short-cut through the fields to watch the games and training. Perhaps, 1994 was a very happy and special year for him when Shamrocks won the South-East Cork Junior Football championship. The final was decided over two games at Riverstick. In the replay his son Pat played at centre back and gave a powerful display and went on to win the ‘man of the match’ award. Pat was later chosed to receive a Carrigdhoun Personality award that season. Mattie, in his own quite and private way relished every minute of that great occasion, without having to raise a shout or a victory leap into the air.
People came from far and near to show their respect and bid a true gentleman farewell. His removal and Requiem Mass at Shanbally’s Church of The Immaculate Conception drew large attendances. He was laid to rest in Barnahaley Cemetry. To his wife Gertie, family Joe, Pat, Eileen, Noel, brother Dan in Northampton, his grandchildren and many relatives and friends, deepest and heartfelt sympathy is extended.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Anam dílis.
