Tributes paid after the passing of Offaly sporting legend

Tributes has been paid to one of Offaly's most respected sporting figures following the passing of the late Tony 'Mosey' Maher.

Tony (75) passed away, peacefully, on Sunday, October 18 at his home at Kileden Lawn, Edenderry surrounded by his loving family.

In a statement on its social media platforms, Edenderry Town FC said the club is in a state of sadness following news of Tony's death.

Originally from St Patrick's Road, Edenderry, Tony was also a talented Gaelic footballer and played underage and adult football for Edenderry GAA Club. Although his county appearances were confined to challenge/tournament games, he was a substitute on the Offaly team that won the Leinster Senior Football Championship in 1980.

'It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Tony “Mosey” Maher. Tony is immediately identified as one of the greats, a hugely influential figure in the history of Edenderry Town FC, and a proud member of our Hall of Fame', Edenderry Town FC said.

'Tony was appointed player-manager and captain of Edenderry Town’s first-team in October, 1971. Arriving at the club at just 19, he brought a level of professionalism, leadership and organisation that was rarely seen in junior football at the time. Having already played League of Ireland football with St Patrick’s Athletic and Athlone Town, Tony quickly made an extraordinary impact on the club.

'Through his determination, passion and exceptional ability, Tony led Edenderry Town to unprecedented success. His achievements included guiding the club to its first-ever major trophy, the Leinster Counties Cup, in June 1972, a triumph that remains one of the most memorable moments in the club’s history. Throughout the 1970's, he captained and inspired the team to numerous league titles and cup victories, while also helping the club reach the latter stages of the FAI Junior Cup on a regular basis', the club added.

The club continued by saying that Tony’s talent earned recognition 'far beyond Edenderry'.

'He captained representative league sides on many occasions and became one of the most respected junior footballers in Leinster. His sporting achievements extended beyond football, including winning a Metropolitan Cup medal with Parkvilla FC, a Leinster Senior Football Championship medal with Offaly in their famous victory over Dublin in Croke Park in 1980, and numerous honours in Edenderry Golf Club, where he was named Golfer of the Year.

'While Tony’s sporting accomplishments were remarkable, it is his contribution to Edenderry Town FC that will forever define his legacy. He helped shape the club during a pivotal period, setting standards and creating memories that continue to inspire generations of players, members and supporters. On behalf of everyone at Edenderry Town FC, we extend deepest sympathies to Tony’s family, friends and former team-mates. His legacy will live on through the club he helped build. May 'Mosey' rest in peace', the club said.

Tony is predeceased by his parents Michael and Bridget, and brother Philip. He passing is deeply regretted and he will be sadly missed by his family: wife Anda, children Alan, Gordon and Nicola, brothers Michael, Liam, Paul and Noel, sister Lillian, grandchildren Alyssa, Adam, Jake, Jamie, Ryan, Mollie, Leah and Zoe, stepdaughter Beata and her husband NJ, daughters-in-law Caroline and Triona, son-in-law Noel, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

The late Mr Maher is reposing today (Monday) at Larkin's Funeral Home, Edenderry from 5pm until 7pm with Rosary at 7pm. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday at 11am in St Mary's Church, Edenderry followed by burial in St Mary's Cemetery.