Galway United FC mourn the passing of its greatest servant Joe Hanley

Is údar mór brón dúinn uilig i nGaillimh Aontaithe bás Joe Hanley, an searbhónta is dílse i stair an chumainn. I measc na sár laochra a bhí againn tá áit speisialta ag Joe. Is boichte saol na Gaillimhe inniu.

It is with the greatest sadness that Galway United signals the passing of its greatest servant Joe Hanley. Joe’s singular and unparalleled service underpinned the club’s halcyon era from the mid eighties until the early nineties. During his tenure as Chairman of the club Galway United qualified for European football on three occasions.

Enabling and empowering both management and players Joe selflessly ensured that Galway United were a match for any side in LOI football. Moreover, off the park he assembled a powerful committee that thrived under his inspirational direction.

An enterprising Galway businessman Joe was held in the highest regard. His unassuming personality and quietly spoken manner earned him great respect and acclaim nationally. He made friends easily and had the best of connections in Galway both business wise and also in the sporting world . Simply stated under Joe’s watch Galway United became relevant.

Those who were fortunate enough to live through that eighties era will appreciate the centrality of Joe’s role in that success. His friendship with other key figures like Eamonn Deacy (RIP), Tony Mannion and Tom Lally always ensured that there was the greatest connect in the club between players and supporters.

Joe was the lead figure in the club playing it’s European ‘86 tie in An Cheathrú Rua. He also led the club to its first national honour with the League Cup success in ‘86 and subsequently the FAI Cup victory in 1991. Alongside these special moments he relished the company of players and supporters in the common cause of making Galway great.

After stepping down as Chairman in 1991 Joe stayed constant in his support of the club. He remained a generous sponsor and always afforded great counsel and direction to those club officers who sought out his advice. This was always given with the same kindness and generosity of spirit that had been a feature of his service to the club.

Throughout his illness Joe welcomed the visits of friends and sporting colleagues retaining his customary charm, wit and spirit. Stories were told, views exchanged, matches replayed, with good people‘s service continually applauded. The achievement of Galway sporting heroes in all codes was celebrated. In relation to his own struggles there was no self pity or complaint. His strength and resolve remained present until the very end.

Those who were privileged to know Joe as a friend appreciated the centrality of family in his life. The great love he had for his wife Annette, his children and grandchildren was at the very fibre of his being. He took the greatest interest in all aspects of their lives and had no little pride in their achievements . Husband, father, grandfather and great mentor.

Fear cumasach, speisialta ab ea Joe Hanley. An duine is mó a thug seirbhís do Ghaillimh Aontaithe. Bhí sé i gcroílár na laethanta is gile agus is stairiúila a bhí againn riamh. Laoch cruthanta ar lár. Ár gcómhbhrón ó chroí le Annette agus muintir Hanley. Leaba i measc na naomh agat Joe, tá do scíth rí thuillte agat.