'Great sadness and loss' in Kilkenny community following the passing of James Kenny

Great sadness and loss was felt around the community last week with the passing of James Kenny, Clomantagh. Although he had been ill, his death caused widespread shock and sadness to all who knew him.

A handsome young man James, who was just 29 years of age, lost his battle with cancer after a courageous fight against his illness.

A talented footballer and athlete he played hurling for the Emeralds from his school days right up to junior level. He played soccer with Freshford Town from schoolboys up to junior level, captaining the junior side. He also played for Wexford Youths at under-19 level in the League of Ireland.

Having graduated from Waterford IT with a degree in Health and Fitness he travelled to many countries during his life including Norway, where he was a personal coach. He also worked in Thailand, Australia and Cambodia. He played hurling with St Pat’s in Sydney and was a dual player in Cambodia, winning the double in 2019. He was a player and coach in Cambodia before returning home.

James was a kind, helpful and caring young man. He loved his family, his football and his travel. He will be sadly missed by his family and all who knew him or met him during his travels.

People came from near and far to pay their respects and sent messages of sympathy from overseas at his passing.

Funeral mass in Graine Church was celebrated by Fr Ollie Maher, PP Urlingford, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Eric Clapton’s song, Tears in Heaven, rang out in the church at the end of Mass while You’ll Never Walk Alone was played in the graveyard for James, an ardent Liverpool fan.

His father Jimmy gave a moving speech during the mass, highlighting the kind of person James was and who he was so proud of.

He is survived by his father Jimmy, mother Louise, step mother Colette, step father Jack, partner Timz, brother, sisters, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, extended family and friends.