A statement by Minister for Education and Kerry TD Norma Foley on the passing of Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh
“I am saddened beyond measure to learn of the passing of Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh. He was a legendary figure in GAA circles, but he was a legendary figure in all of our homes and in all of our hearts.
He was synonymous with what it was and what it is to be a true and great Irish gentleman.
His unique love of Irish language, culture and sport. His incredible civility and courtesy. His gentleness and his extraordinary compassion and kindness. The very best of us and how we would like the world to see us.
Micheál was very witty and had a remarkable turn of phrase.
Fox and Rabbitte
His GAA commentaries were thrilling, exciting and memorable. One of his most famous pieces of commentary in Croke Park featured the hurlers Pat Fox from Tipperary and Joe Rabbitte from Galway.
“Pat Fox has it on his hurl and is motoring well now, but here comes Joe Rabbitte hot on his tail… I’ve seen it all now, a Rabbitte chasing a Fox around Croke Park! – Quintessential Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh.
Micheál wore his Kerry credentials with great pride and no matter where he travelled, it was so important that he would have access to the Kerry news and the Kerry papers. And this was long before we had mobile phones or internet.
Buying The Kerryman in New York
He used to love to tell the story about being in New York and asking for a copy of the Kerryman at a newsstand there.
The man behind the counter turned to him and said, “Do you want the North Kerry edition, or the South Kerry edition?”
Micheál had enormous pride in the fact that Kerry people were everywhere. Everyone knew he was a true Kerry man, no matter where you would find him. We were truly honored as Kerry people to have him as part of our tribe.
Kind and Obliging
He was an extraordinarily kind and obliging man. He was the most accessible individual. He never refused an opportunity to do some fundraiser or visit some part of the country where he could be a support to either individuals to families or to community.
Micheál has left a remarkable legacy that speaks to the richness of Irish tradition, Irish folklore, Irish culture, and of course, Gaelic Games, both football and hurling. He was a legend in his lifetime and he remains a legend in his death.
Go Raibh Maith Agat do Gach Rud
We are the lesser for your passing, Micheál, but we are greater for having had the privilege of knowing you, learning from you and benefiting from your talent, your wisdom and your extraordinary good heartedness.
Coladh sámh anois, a Mhíchíl, agus go raibh maith agat do gach rud.”
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