RIP: Longford community bids sad farewell to Owen Johnston 'a man of vision and determination'

The parish of Killashee was deeply saddened last Friday, January 9 by the passing of Owen Johnston, Honorary Chairperson of St Brigid’s Killashee GAA Club,  in the loving care of the nurses and staff at Roscommon Hospice, following a short illness bravely borne with great courage and determination. 

Owen was a proud Gael and a highly respected figure within the GAA community. His lifelong dedication and passion for St Brigid’s were unparalleled.

He served as Club Chairperson for an exceptional fourteen years, making him one of the club’s longest-serving Chairpersons.

During this time, the club enjoyed some of its most significant achievements, both on and off the field.

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On the playing front, St Brigid’s won four out of their six Intermediate titles during Owen's tenure, with two of those titles captured in the same year due to the COVID-affected season—an extraordinary achievement in the club’s history.

Owen also oversaw two memorable Leinster campaigns, with the club reaching a Leinster Junior Football Final (2015) and Semi-Final (2025), both representing new heights that St Brigid’s had never previously experienced.

A man of vision and determination, Owen played a pivotal role in the redevelopment of the club grounds. He led a major fundraising campaign that transformed the facilities to a modern standard, ensuring they will serve players, future teams, and the wider parish community for generations to come.

His tireless efforts and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on the club, and his legacy will endure for many years to come.

He reposed at Glennon’s Funeral Home, Ballinalee Road, Longford on Sunday with Mass of the Resurrection celebrated in St.Patrick’s Church, Killashee on Monday, January 12 followed by interment afterwards in Ballinakill cemetery.

The late Owen Johnston, Tarmonbarry, Co Roscommon and Clonbrock, Killashee, Co Longford and formerly of Proleek, Ravensdale, Dundalk, Co Louth was predeceased by his parents Mary and Owen, brother-in-law Ian and by his father-in-law P.J.

We extend our deepest sympathies to his beloved wife Rosemary (née Killian), sisters Barbara and Colette, brothers Pat, David, Maurice and Mark, mother-in-law Rita, sisters-in-law Jane, Anne, Eileen, Elaine, Gráinne, Carol and Clodagh, brothers-in-law Phil, Thomas, Michael, Joe and Michael, nieces , nephews, relatives, many good friends, neighbours and work colleagues at ABP Clones.

Owen’s contribution to St Brigid’s Killashee GAA Club and to the GAA will never be forgotten.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

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