RIP: 'Great referee' calls committed Longford community activist to his eternal home
Tribute to the late Malachy Scott, Kiltycreevagh, Ballinamuck, Co Longford, and formerly of Ballynacargy, Co Westmeath
For Malachy Scott, Ballinamuck, Longford, the final whistle sounded on Friday, April 17, as the great ‘referee’ called him to his eternal home.
Although he gave decades of service to Ballynacargy, it was in 1989 that Malachy began a new chapter in Ballinamuck, Co Longford, where he lived for the remainder of his life with his beloved wife Philomena and stepson Colin.
There, he quickly became part of the local fabric, taking a keen interest in school football and following the fortunes of Fr Manning Gaels. His commitment to community life continued through his involvement in the club lotto and his fundraising work with the local Enterprise group.
Malachy and Philomena also embraced the social side of life in Ballinamuck, particularly the twinning with Essert, enjoying many memorable occasions both in north-eastern France and at home.
He remained a familiar and engaged presence in the area, maintaining strong connections with neighbours and friends, while continuing his long-standing interest in GAA affairs.
Even after settling in Longford, Malachy continued refereeing for many years and never lost his deep attachment to Ballynacargy and Westmeath football.
Regular phone calls home were filled with enquiries about the club, local happenings and the wellbeing of friends, reflecting a bond that never faded.
Before his move, Malachy had spent 41 years in Ballynacargy, where he was a central figure in the GAA club as a chairperson, mentor, administrator and referee. He was instrumental in developing underage football and played a key role in the success of Ballynacargy NS, including Cumann na mBunscol victories in 1986 and 1988.
As chairperson, he oversaw the club’s first intermediate championship success in 1987 and important developments at Moynihan Park.
Away from the GAA, he worked with Westmeath County Council, serving as an overseer on projects in Mullingar and across the county, and was also deeply involved in the Labour Party and SIPTU, advocating strongly for workers’ rights.
He was a staunch supporter and great friend of former Labour TD, Willie Penrose, who was very sad to learn of Malachy's passing.
Malachy’s death came just ten weeks after that of his beloved wife, Philomena, a loss he bore with great strength. He is now reunited with her, as well as with his stepson Colin, parents James and Margaret, brother Jimmy and sister Mary.
He will be fondly remembered by his nephews and nieces Michael, Audrey, Damien, Fiona, James and Davina; his extended family in Ballinamuck: Michael McNally, Belinda, Fiona, Garry, Michelle, Marie, Jenni and Cillian. He will also be missed by his relatives, many good friends and neighbours.
Malachy’s Funeral Mass took place in St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Ballinamuck on Monday, April 20, where symbols of his life, including a whistle, family photo, TV remote control and a copy of the Westmeath Examiner, were brought to the altar.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.