We at the Saffron Gael were saddened to hear of the death this week of Tir na nOg stalwart, Vincent Kerr. A post on facebook from his nephew, Michael Kerr highlighted the life and career of Vincent whose career with the Randalstown club spanned 35 years.

Last night we said farewell to Uncle Vincent. Just short of his 89th birthday, he was in his last days as he was in life, strong, determined, dignified and fun.

A lifelong sports fan, an early boxer, Vincent became one of our club’s best players and most highly decorated hurlers. His Tir Na nOg playing career spanned 35 years in hurling and football winning the Antrim Junior Championship in 1960.

His skills were utilised first for Antrim at minor level in the early 50s, and then winning two Ulster finals and competing in two All Ireland finals for Antrim in 1958, and 1959, and representing Ulster in the railway cup in the early 60s.

In his mid-40’s he retired his GAA playing days and followed a new passion combining his love of birds with his competitive nature and became a member of the pigeon racing fraternity, winning regular trophies and titles.

Vincent was a master tradesman, no skill was beyond his capability and our extended family circle, the club and local friends and community all benefitted from his precision with his tools.

Earlier this year he said goodbye to his wife Mary of over 60 years, but accepted his loss and his illness with dignity and grace.

There will never be another like Vincent and we have all lost a champion, a great neighbour, a loving family man.

Rest in Peace Vincent – truly a man for all ages.