A truly gentle man and an ‘icon of Ballyfermot football’ has passed away
THE sad passing of a gentle man is mourned in Ballyfermot this week, following news that Paul O’Brien died on July 2.
Mr O’Brien (63) was a massive football figure and published author, much loved by all who knew him for his kind spirit and selfless nature.
Paul was a key figure in five- and seven-a-side leagues in the 1970s, 80s and 90s, and launched his own book ‘For the Love of the Game’ back in 2016.
The Kylemore resident conducted extensive research for years, interviewing players around the country, collecting photographs, and generating finance to compile the book.
In later years, he created special football calendars to commemorate the volume of work in the book.
Tributes flowed in from far and wide this week for Paul, as people in the wider community remembered a “kind” and “good” man who encouraged countless youngsters to participate in football.
David ‘Dotsy’ Byrne, who created the popular Legends of Ballyer Facebook page, was “saddened” to hear of the loss.
“As a kid growing up on Kylemore Avenue, Paul was there helping all the kids like myself love the beautiful game. He was an icon of Ballyfermot football for many a teenager in the early ’90s, a gentleman, a true Ballyer legend and I hope he gets the best bed in heaven,” said David in a post.
John Belmont, from Ballyfermot United said: “We are saddened to hear the news of the passing of Paul O’Brien. Paul was a massive figure in football in Ballyfermot for decades and is responsible for so many kids falling in love with the beautiful game.
“Our condolences go out to Paul’s family and friends at this extremely sad time.”
A message on RIP.ie said Paul passed away peacefully in St James’s Hospital surrounded by his loving family.
“He is sadly missed by his heartbroken sister Patricia, and her daughters, Sarah and Gemma. He is deeply missed by sister Kathleen, brothers Michael, John, and William, brother-in-law Joe, sisters-in-law, Sheila and Frances, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.”
Funeral arrangements were to be finalised as of Tuesday evening.
