Longford community left heartbroken following the death of 'true Gael' Alan O'Hara

There is a profound sense of sadness in the town of Edgeworthstown and throughout county Longford following the untimely passing of highly regarded Mostrim GAA player and dedicated club stalwart Alan O'Hara.

Alan of 67 Devine Crescent, Edgeworthstown died unexpectedly following a short illness in James’s Hospital, Dublin surrounded by his heartbroken family on Friday, May 23.

Alan will be forever missed and always remembered with love by his family, his beloved parents John and Mary, his loving partner Ariel, sisters Aisling, Alison, Rachel and Rebecca, brothers-in-law Brendan, Paul, Matthew and Peter, his adored nieces

Leah, Lucy, Madison, Zoey and Millie, uncles, aunt, gran-uncle, relatives, neighbours and his many dear friends, especially his GAA family.

News of Alan’s death has stunned the GAA community locally and numerous tributes have been paid to the resilient defender who lined out at left half back with Mostrim in the 2021 Longford senior football championship. He also played at underage level with Longford.

Alan was affectionately known as ‘Hardchaw’ or ‘Chaw’ and he has been fondly remembered in several social media posts by clubs in his home town of Edgeworthstown and beyond.

As a mark of respect to Alan, a Remembrance Mass took place last Saturday morning in Our Lady’s Manor.

C&D Devine Park was closed to all GAA activities, while Mostrim’s Division 2 League game versus Sean Connollys scheduled for Saturday evening was postponed.

The Football Fun Factory charity event for Epilepsy Ireland scheduled to take place in St Mary’s Community Centre and Sports Hub, Edgeworthstown on Sunday was also cancelled.

Mostrim GAA posted a lovely tribute to Alan.

“It is with great sadness within our Mostrim GAA Club and the Edgeworthstown community that we have learned of the untimely passing of Alan O'Hara.

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“Alan was a current playing member of the Mostrim GAA Club and was heavily involved in helping with the minors and seniors of the club up until a few weeks ago.

“Alan comes from a proud Mostrim GAA family, with the O'Hara family steeped in Mostrim GAA.

“Of course, Alan was more commonly referred to by his nickname ‘Hardchaw’ or ‘Chaw’ for short, but in reality, he was a true gent.

“Alan started out at underage level, and it was plain to see his love for his Club Mostrim GAA.

“On any given day, you would see Alan going to the club gym or going for a run or cycle. Always in tip-top physical condition.

Fitness was never a problem.

“Alan played at every level for the Mostrim Club growing up and represented Longford at each grade up to U21 level.

“In recent years, Alan was an integral part of the Mostrim senior team, and never more than en route to the County Final in 2021, lining out at number 7, in the half back line.

“To Alan's mother Mary, father John, sisters, Rebecca, Rachel, Alison, Aisling, Alan's partner Ariel, the extended O'Hara family and his wide circle of friends, we extend our deepest sympathies.

“Alan will be missed in Mostrim GAA Club, Edgeworthstown community and beyond. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

A former player and loyal supporter of Wolfe Tones hurling club, the club posted a social media tribute.

“A dark cloud hangs over the parish as we learn that our dear friend Alan O’Hara passed away following a short illness. Life is so cruel. Words are small consolation but Alan was a well respected and much liked part of our community and his absence will be greatly missed.”

Paying tribute, Longford GAA described Alan as a true Gael ‘who was an integral part of his club and community, wearing the Red & Green with pride and also representing Longford at all underage levels up to U21’.

Remembering Alan, Mostrim Community Games said he ‘would always be part of their team’.

“It is with great sadness and disbelief within our community that we hear of the untimely passing of Alan O’Hara. Alan was always one of the first people to offer to help out in whatever way he could, making sure every field day he was there to help and cheer on the children.”

The late Alan ‘Hardchaw’ O’Hara will lie in repose at St Mary's Church, Edgeworthstown (N39 E628) on Wednesday, May 28 from 5pm concluding with prayers at 8pm.

Removal from his sister and brother-in-law Alison and Brendan’s home (46 Devine Crescent) on Thursday, May 29 to arrive at St Mary’s Church, Edgeworthstown for Funeral Mass at 1pm. Following Mass Alan will be laid to rest in Aughafin Cemetery.

Family flowers only please, donations if desired to (Mullingar Regional Hospital ICU) c/o Connell Funeral Directors or any family member. Please Note: House private at all times.