Coalisland Fianna '˜inspiration' Mickey '˜Wellpad' O'Neill to be laid to rest tomorrow

Husband to Catherine-Ann, and father of Mary (O’Neill), Kelly-Ann (Corr), Ellen (Hetherington), Patricia (Devlin), Dominic, Gerard and Louis, darling granda, dear brother to Sean, Joe and late Louis, he was said to have “inspired a generation of Fianna players”.

Leaving behind his brothers Sean, Joe and late Louis, Jim and Oliver, he will be buried afterwards in St Mary and Joseph’s Cemetery in the town.

But, at his own request, donations to the Chest, Heart and Stroke are being asked for instead of flowers.

Tributes have been paid to well-known Fianna supporter, who once served as chairman, while the club has expressed sincere condolences to the O’Neill family following their loss.

“Mickey always greeted you with a smile on his face and was devoted to his family and his Gaa club,” a statement read.

“Mickey never missed a senior match and was never shy to voice his opinions at AGMs. Having served as chairperson of the club in his day, Mickey was a regular at the Fianna Bingo and was always available to chip in whenever help was needed on match days and organising events.

“He was often seen cleaning up on the terraces after a match and in fact, Mickey was the type of man who didn’t shy away from a job that he seen needed doing. Mickey Wellpad has been an inspiration to a generation of Fianna players and members and it is at this difficult time that the thoughts and prayers of the entire Coalisland na Fianna Club are with his family.

“A true Gael, a dedicated family man and a loyal Blue, Mickey Wellpad O’Neill will, without doubt, continue to watch over his family and his beloved Na Fianna. May he rest in peace.”