Tributes have been paid to “a true Ranger” – long-serving Crossmaglen GAA Public Relations Officer, Tom McKay – following his sad passing on Sunday.
Tom, who was in his eighties, held the role with Crossmaglen for two decades, taking on the “temporary” position in 1996 and continuing until the grand age of 81.
A minute’s silence was held in his memory ahead of Armagh’s All-Ireland quarter-final defeat to Kerry in Croke Park on Sunday – just hours after his passing.
The Crossmaglen club described Tom as a “true Ranger”.
“Tom, PRO for 20 years, lotto promoter, a true supporter and dear friend, he represented the black and amber with pride and distinction, and we thank Tom for his long and dedicated service,” the club posted.
“He was immensely proud of his daughters, Áine and Sinéad, son-in-law Joey and grandson Aaron when they togged out for the Rangers. May Tom be reunited with Joan.”
Tom’s journey with the club began in 1963, but it wasn’t until his retirement in 1996 that he officially took on the role of PRO, thanks to a timely invitation from Eddie Hughes.
What followed was a period that coincided with the most successful era in the club’s storied history.
In a previous interview with the club, Tom, reflecting on those years, recalled the transformational leadership of manager Joe Kernan and the breakthrough County Championship win in 1996 – a decade after their previous title.
“Joe set the bar very high,” Tom remembered. “The players bought into it and were committed to reaching the top.” That commitment paid off with multiple All-Ireland victories, the most memorable being the club’s first in 1997.
Tom also forged lasting friendships through his work, particularly with members of the press.
He credited figures like Joe McManus, Brendan Crossan and Marty Morrissey for their support, praising the mutual respect built between the media and the club.
“It’s a fine line,” he said, “but helping the press helps promote the club.”
Perhaps most special to Tom was seeing his own grandson and young talents from Rathview Park lift All-Ireland titles – players he had watched grow from kicking a ball on the green.
Tom, albeit a Down native, made Crossmaglen his home.
“The club played a very important role in my life,” he said. “On arrival in Crossmaglen after my marriage, it enabled me to integrate into the community. I was made welcome and got involved in many activities within the club.
“The values the club espouses, coupled with the success at all levels, have given me great pleasure. The value that the club places on the development of young people – both as footballers and as individuals – is a great source of pride to me.
“Over my time with the club, we have experienced many problems, but have dealt with them in the same dignified manner as we have accepted success and defeat on the football field. The club projects a positive image of the town and provided my family and me with many unforgettable years.”
For Tom, Crossmaglen Rangers was not just a club – it was a home, a community, and a source of lifelong pride.
Before his time in south Armagh, Tom served as secretary for Newry Shamrocks, who described him as “a true Gael and lifelong servant of our games”.
“Tom dedicated countless years to our club, working tirelessly behind the scenes with quiet strength, humility, and deep passion for our games,” the club wrote.
“His commitment shaped generations of players and volunteers, and his legacy will live on in every corner of Páirc Esler.
“Later, Tom continued his remarkable service with Crossmaglen Rangers, where he was equally admired and respected. Few individuals leave a mark on two great clubs – but Tom was no ordinary man. To his family, we offer our heartfelt condolences. Thank you for sharing him with us. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Tom’s funeral will take place on Wednesday at St Patrick’s Church, Crossmaglen, with Requiem Mass at 11am.
