It is with a very heavy heart we say our final farewell to our esteemed colleague and dear friend Marion Donnelly. Marion proudly sat on the management of Monaghan GAA as our Ulster Delegate. An office she held with the highest regard and performed her duties with distinction and pride.
Marion’s love for GAA was evident from a very early age as her dad Benny Connolly was part of the 1956 Monaghan All Ireland Junior Winning Team. Marion had a strong passion for our association and it was clear when knowing her that the GAA was very close to her heart. Continually striving to improve standards and the administration of the association Marion worked tirelessly to develop our games, our association, and in particular facilities for all our players.
Marion’s foresight initially came to light when setting up juvenile structures within Emyvale and Monaghan GAA. Her expertise, passion and determination to improve our games at this level today is immeasurable. Marion also had a highly decorated career on Monaghan GAA serving as Assistant Secretary from 2000-2003, Assistant Treasurer in 2004 then moving into the position of Treasurer in 2005. Serving as Treasurer from 2005 until 2015 Marion was instrumental in the development of our Entekra Ireland Monaghan GAA training facilities in Cloghan. Sitting on numerous Monaghan GAA and Ulster GAA sub committees Marion had a strong interest in the development of our clubs and would do her upmost in supporting and advising clubs with her vast expertise and knowledge.
Never one for resting on her laurels Marion was a long serving member of National GAA Finance Committee in Croke Park, once again assisting clubs and counties nationally with her expertise. Serving also on Ulster GAA Finance Committee, Ulster Hearing Committee and Ulster Club Planning & Physical Development Committee and Ulster GAA Scor Committee
Marion was a wonderful stalwart for her beloved club Emyvale GAA Club and was integral in setting up Emyvale Ladies club. Marion served as club Treasurer and was an invaluable asset to our Association. She was a trojan worker whose work and service speaks volumes about her massive contribution and involvement with the GAA. Marion also offered her knowledge and skills to organisations beyond the GAA and one of which Marion was a highly regarded member of the Emyvale Credit Union. Her generous persona for the Community is apparent within the many organisations which are thriving today with Marion’s guidance
The legacy Marion has left behind in the many projects she was profoundly and passionately involved in from the Entekra Monaghan GAA training facilities in Cloghan to the Garden of Remembrance in Emyvale is a testament of the person we have very sadly lost and will miss.
We offer our heartfelt sympathy to Marion’s family Colin, Aoife, Terence, Nuala, the extended family, colleagues, friends and to the Emyvale club. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam
By Majella Boyd Wed 21st Dec
