John O’Mahony, a prominent figure in Irish Gaelic football and politics, has passed away at the age of 71. O’Mahony, a native of Kilmovee, County Mayo, leaves behind a legacy of success in both sports and public service.

Born and raised in Mayo, O’Mahony graduated from University College Galway before embarking on a teaching career at St Nathy’s College in Ballaghaderreen, County Roscommon. He is survived by his wife, Gerardine Towey, and their five daughters.

O’Mahony’s contributions to Gaelic football were significant and wide-ranging. He managed the Mayo senior football team and achieved notable success with other county teams. His tenure as Galway’s manager saw the team clinch two All-Ireland Senior Football Championship titles in 1998 and 2001. Earlier in his career, he led Leitrim to victory in the 1994 Connacht Senior Football Championship. In recognition of his impact on the sport, O’Mahony was ranked 114th in the Sunday Tribune’s list of the 125 Most Influential People in GAA History in 2009.

Transitioning to politics, O’Mahony was elected as a TD (Teachta Dála) for the Mayo constituency in the 2007 general election. Although he lost his seat in 2016, he continued his political career when then-Taoiseach Enda Kenny nominated him to the 25th Seanad. In this role, he served as the Fine Gael Seanad spokesperson on TranSport, Tourism and Sport.

The Galway Football Club paid tribute to O’Mahony, expressing deep sadness at his passing and remembering him as the manager who guided them to All-Ireland glory. They shared the traditional Irish blessing, “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam” (May his soul be at the right hand of God).

O’Mahony’s passing marks the end of a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on both Irish sports and politics. His contributions to Gaelic football and his service to his constituents will be remembered by many across Ireland.