A driving force in hurling club and local community

OBITUARY: Kit Mitchell, Killyon

Christopher Mitchell

Christopher (Kit) Mitchell Killyon, Hill-of-Down, who died on Wednesday 27th December last after a short illness in the Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar, has been described as both a legend and a hero by Killyon Hurling Club.

"The words legend and hero are often used to describe a person's contribution to sport and to us at Killyon Hurling Club, Kit was both a legend and a hero," the club stated. "His untiring selfless dedication to and work for the club and his concern for its welfare and the welfare of his players and supporters will forever be the benchmark to which the club will aspire."

Killyon HC said that Kit watched as the club grew and developed to what it is today "and this development was due in no small way to his vision, determination, and hard work".

Kit was first elected club chairman in 1966, and he continued to serve in that position for 19 years. During that term, he saw the club come from a junior club to win three consecutive senior hurling titles. Not only was he chairman at this time but team manager. He also found time to play himself and was proud to say he held four junior hurling championship medals in four different decades, in 1968, 1976, 1981, and in 1991 he came off the bench against Donaghmore Ashbourne to score the winning goal.

During this period, he spearheaded the development of the club ground, the provision of dressing rooms, and enhanced facilities for players and supporters alike. In 1992, Kit was heavily involved in the setup and running of the current club lotto.

Underage hurling was a priority for Kit and he left no stone unturned in ensuring that youngsters in the area were afforded every opportunity and encouragement to excel at hurling.

In 1993, Kit was re-elected as chairman and he held this position to his passing. During his years as chairman, he was proud to see the club awarded Club of the Year in 1976, 1981, and 2005. Kit was also involved in many positions within Meath County Board. As recognition for his hard work at club and county level, he was enrolled into the Meath Hall of Fame in 2013. In 2024, Kit was hoping to complete his 50th year as chairman.

Players always knew that Kit had their back. He was always in the dressing room in victory and defeat encouraging players on. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, service and influence to his club.

Not only was Kit the chief driving force behind Killyon Hurling Club but also a driving force for community activities in Killyon. These activities included the church choir, management of St Mary’s Cemetery, Killyon, and many more. Kit had a great love of horse racing and enjoyed his annual trip to Listowel. His early working life involved in the construction industry, where he built many of local homes. In later years he retired to his love of farming.

"We have lost a true great, a gentleman, and a wonderful role model," Killyon Hurling Club stated. "There is so much we could write in tribute to Kit but suffice to say, that his contribution to our Club will remain in the hearts and minds of Killyon Hurling Club members forever. Kit has etched a special notch in each home in the club, parish and extended Meath GAA community."

We extend our deepest sympathies to Kit's sister, Nuala, brothers, Jimmy and Anthony, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and the extended Mitchell family.

Meath County GAA Board described Kit as a man synonymous with the spirit and passion of the GAA in Meath, with a lifetime dedicated to hurling, Gaelic games, and community.

As the chairperson of Killyon GAA Club, Kit's leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the club's success," the county board stated. "His contributions extended beyond the administrative roles, as he was a formidable player, an inspiring coach, and a mentor to many. Kit's dedication to the club and the broader GAA community in Meath was unparalleled.

"While his loss leaves a void that will be hard to fill, Kit's legacy, will continue to inspire and guide, as his commitment to hurling, his love for the community, and his tireless efforts to promote the values of the GAA are benchmarks for us all."

Predeceased by his parents, John and Mary Rose; brothers, Paddy, Finn and Larry; sister, Betty; brother-in-law, Paddy Kiely, and grandnephew, Barry, Kit is survived by his sister, Nuala Gannon; brothers, Jimmy and Anthony; brother-in-law, Billy, sisters-in-law, Bridgie, Breda, Julie and Patty; nephews, nieces, extended family neighbours and friends.

A funeral took place on New Year's Day in the Church of Our Lady and St Dominic, Killyon, followed by burial in the local cemetery.