A true community great: The late Charlie McCarthy fondly remembered in Clogh and North Kilkenny

The death occurred at his home in Clogh village of Charlie McCarthy, in the company of those nearest and dearest to him.

An influencer to so many, meticulous to the last, earliest memories flowed of his roles with Norman McNaughton, Dockrells and Brookes Thomas Building Companies and his famous white Cortina. Charlie’s energy as an administrator for numerous clubs and organisations knew no bounds. He was a generous means of transport when few - if anyone - had a car to travel to both sporting and social events. He managed and played for his beloved Deen Rovers, leading them to success in a Top Four and Cup success in Carlow.

He was always willing to assist and served with distinction in executive roles mostly as Secretary to Kilkenny & District Soccer League, ’Comer Rovers, Castlecomer Pitch Development Committee, Castlecomer Basketball Club, Cloneen Hurling Club - of which he was a founding member and Life President - Railyard GFC, Clogh Community Council (chairman) and Clogh Community Employment Scheme to name but a few. He always led from the front and was instrumental in the purchase of the soccer grounds and the building of the clubhouse which at that time was a joint venture between ’Comer Rovers and Ardra Rovers.

Charlie was also one of the driving forces behind providing the magnificent facilities at Cloneen Hurling Club. He played football for Railyard and also found time to be the main organiser of the Factory League and be a prominent PRO of Kenny’s Club who provided a social night out annually for the senior citizens at Bollards Bar. A loyal follower of Kilkenny hurling he rarely missed a match with his great friend John Kavanagh and of course a few beverages.

When Charlie was in full flow what you saw is exactly what you got, and he was very happy in the twilight of his career to open up a shop in Clogh. A man who will always be fondly remembered as ‘Mr Soccer’, for many years he was the Clogh-Moneenroe correspondent with the Kilkenny People. The wonderful and exceptional care he received from his family allowed him to live out his remaining years in the comfort of his own home.

A noted Gael and a County Board representative for several years, the Rose of Mooncoin was a fitting tribute as he left the Church for the last time. Burial was in Clogh Parish Cemetery after Requiem Mass, which was celebrated in St Patrick’s Church by Fr Richard Scriven Adm Clogh-Moneenroe.

Charlie is survived by his wife Eileen; son Robert; daughter Carol; brothers Billy, Florence, Anjo; sisters Ann, Margaret, Catherine and Eithne; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; nieces; nephews; extended family and many friends at home and away.
READ MORE: RECENT DEATHS IN KILKENNY