T. J. Murphy R.I.P.

Sligo GAA is deeply saddened at the passing of Tommy Joe Murphy, Tubbercurry, one of the county’s best known personalities and staunchest supporters who gave a lifetime of loyal and dedicated service to the Gaelic Athletic Association at club, county and national level.

Tommy Joe had a very successful playing career with Tubbercurry GAA Club winning County SFC medals in 1946, 1950 and 1951, captaining the team in the latter two years. He also won two County SFL medals with Tubbercurry in 1950 and 1954. Tommy Joe was an outstanding goalkeeper on Sligo senior county team between 1952 and 1954 but played much of his club football in outfield positions. He played in goals on the Sligo senior team which had a memorable series of games in the 1951-‘52 NFL campaign. Impressive wins over Offaly, Roscommon and Longford put Sligo through to the quarter finals. A close encounter with Donegal at Glenties resulted in a one point win for the northerners. In 1952 and 1953 Sligo fought two memorable championship battles against high flying Mayo who were All-Ireland champions in 1950-’51. Tommy Joe was outstanding in those two games at Charlestown and Corran Park, Ballymote, both of which Sligo lost by just three points. He memorably saved a penalty from Padraig Carney in the 1953 game at Corran Park, although the rebound was bundled to the net.

Tommy Joe was Chairman of Tubbercurry GAA Club in 1965-1967 and again in 1982-1984. He held many other positions in the club at various times including Vice-Chairman and was elected Club Patron on his retirement as Chairman in 1984. He was also Chairman of Kilcoyne Memorial Park, Tubbercurry, for a number of years including 1984, the GAA Centenary Year, when the Park was awarded the  AIB GAA Sligo and Connacht Club of the Year awards. He was also Chairman of the County Centenary Year Committee and represented the Past Players of Sligo in the National Parade prior to the Railway Cup final in Ennis. Tommy Joe also was chosen to Chair the County GAA Commission in 1981 which delivered a wide ranging and progressive report. He was a loyal supporter who was always willing to step forward to act on various committees when required. He gave years of service to the County Activities Committee, the forerunner of the current CCC.

Tommy Joe represented Sligo on Árd-Chomhairle in 1975-1978 and served on a number of national committees.

Sligo GAA extends deepest sympathy to his wife Christina, sons James, John, Walter, Brendan and David, daughters Elizabeth and Catherine, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, relatives and friends. Tommy Joe was predeceased by son Tomás last year.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam uasal Gaelach.