Former FAI chief John Delaney paid tribute to his late Joe Delaney as he was laid to rest yesterday.
A large crowd turned out for Mr Delaney’s funeral in Tipperary Town with mourners in St Michael Church being told that he will be remembered as a “hero” and “a great man.
Joe Delaney, who was a longtime treasurer for the FAI up until 1996, passed away last Tuesday aged 82.
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Mr Delaney previously acted as Chairman of Waterford United and was Life President of St Michael’s FC in his native Tipperary
His son, John Delaney, who was FAI chief executive from 2005 to 2019 - also described his father as his “hero”saying his family was finding it very difficult at this time as his mother, Joan also passed away less than 12 months ago.
He said: “We’ve been through a lot together - Dad and I - in business, in sport, in life. “He is, in truth, my hero. I’ve met many, many people in my varied life, in Ireland, the UK, across Europe, and he had the sharpest mind, the quickest wit I’ve ever met of anyone.”
The former FAI chief added: “Most importantly, he was always there for me, particularly when I needed it most.
“And he instilled in me my love of sport: the blue of Waterford, the red of Manchester United, the green of Ireland and the love of St Michael’s Football Club.”
Holding back tears John Delaney held onto his father’s coffin as it was brought into the packed church while a guard of honour was provided by his beloved St Michael’s soccer club.
Among the mourners were many representatives from the world of sport and politics including TD and former minister Michael Lowry.
