‘May heaven be her new playing surface’: Sadness at passing of ex-Limerick hurling manager’s mum

“A TRUE friend who wrapped us all in her love and care” is one of countless tributes paid after the passing of Esther Ryan (née Walsh).

Esther, of Ballincroona, Knocklong and formerly Carraturk, Ballylanders, passed away peacefully on Thursday, after a short illness, at her residence surrounded by her loving family. 

All of her and husband Dan’s three sons - David, Donie and TJ - hurled for Garryspillane and Limerick over long and distinguished playing careers. TJ went on to manage both his club and county.

A post on Garryspillane GAA club’s Facebook page said they have “lost a pillar of our club”.

“One of our greatest volunteers for numerous years, she gave a lifetime of service, supporting and working for the Bouncers.

"Her husband Dan played all grades for Garryspillane and her three boys of legendary status graced many fields all over the country with their number one supporter by their side.

“May heaven be her new playing surface,” read the post.

Esther will be reposing at Davern's Funeral Home, Hospital (V35XV96), this Sunday evening, March 2 from 5.30pm until 8pm. 

Funeral cortege arriving at St Joseph’s Church, Knocklong on Monday morning, March 3 for requiem Mass at 11.30am. Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

There have been dozens upon dozens of condolences paid on rip.ie including from Limerick County Board chairman Seamus McNamara on behalf of Limerick GAA; Club Limerick Dublin and Clare’s Anthony Daly.

Esther will have been a familiar and friendly face to many while working for years behind the counter of bookmaker Paddy McAuliffe, who also expressed his sympathies.

One of many moving condolences reads: “A bright light has left all our lives forever on the sad passing of Esther. She was a true friend who wrapped us all in her love and care. We will cherish the memories, fun and laughter of our annual holidays together. She will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Esther, our dearest friend.” 

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It has been a very sad week for Garryspillane GAA Club and the wider community as they have now lost two great ladies.

Pauline Ryan (neé O'Connell), of Mitchelstowndown, Knocklong and formerly of Ballinacurra, Hospital, passed away on Friday, February 21. Pauline, of the well-known Jap Ryans, was another Bouncers stalwart.

Esther is sadly missed by her husband Dan, sons and daughters Martina (Geary), TJ, Donie, David, Jackie (McNamara), sister Mary (Gladman), sons in law and daughters in law Kieran, Louise, Siobhan, Cathy and Maurice, her adored 12 grandchildren Colin, Eoghan, Cormac, Tiernan, Chloe, Aisling, Amy, Emily, Molly, MJ, Ayda and Danny, sister in law Eileen (O'Dwyer) brother in law Les (Gladman), nephew Sean, cousins, family relatives and a wide circle of friends and neighbours.

The Ryan family have asked for donations, if desired, to Milford Care Centre.

May she rest in peace.