Poignant homecoming for legend Thady to Healy Park

THERE were poignant scenes at Healy Park this afternoon after the remains of the late legendary goalkeeper, Thady Turbett, were honoured at the venue of his home club.

Mr Turbett, who was 92, died yesterday evening. During an illustrious career he had starred for the historic Red Hand team which won the Ulster title for the first time in 1956 and 1957. He also won six county titles with the St Enda’s, represented Ulster and Ireland and coached at both club and county level.

Current stars, Conor Meyler, Connor O’Donnell and Ronan O’Neill joined with past players and the club chairman, Conor Sally, in draping the club flag on the coffin.

Scores of people lined the route of the cortege around the stadium in a final visit by Mr Turbett. Just weeks ago, he had been officially opened the new Caife 32.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has also passed their condolences to the Turbett family at their meeting tonight.

Omagh Town Sinn Fein councillor, Barry McElduff, in proposing the motion of condolence said Thady Turbett was ‘truly an iconic figure’ in Tyrone.

“Thady had a long and distinguished career in gaelic football. He was a menber of the first Tyrone team to win the Ulster Senior title in 1956 and 1957. Thady Turbett was a first class human being, and iconic GAA and sporting figure and someone whom it was a privilege to have met and known him.”

Omagh Town independent councillor, Josephine Deehan, said Thady Turbett was very well known and respected in the local community.

“Thady was an icon in GAA circles, but he also had a great gusto for life and was a tremendous talent,” she added.

Independent councillor, Emmett McAleer, ssid Mr Turbett was a ‘giant of the local community.’