It is with deep regret that Westport United announce the passing of one of the heroes of the 1961 Connaught Cup success with the sad news of the late Pat Grady.

Pat Grady was a very well known sportsman in the town and he was a member of the successful Westport United sides of the late 1950's into the early 1960's as a tough centre forward who matched his physical presence with a good eye for goal. Pat's goals helped Westport United to their earliest league titles in 1963 and 1964 after some near misses by Westport United in the years prior to their first accolade. Pat's crowning moment for the club came on May 14th 1961 as he opened the scoring for Westport United against Sligo Rangers in the Connaught Cup final. Westport went on to win the match 4-1 to win their first provincial title in 12 years. Pat was also influential during that 1961 Connaught Cup run, chipping in with hugely important goals to help Westport United reach the final of that competition.

Despite his sporting achievements, Pat was a very modest and humble man who liked the simple basics of life. He enjoyed the social scene with his friends and he was more than adept in discussing issues that required a debate in his firm, direct but polite manner. Pat was one of the local characters of the town who will be missed by all who knew him.

Westport United would like to extend a Vote of Sympathy to his loving daughter Jacqueline (Dever), son Sean and their mother Margaret, son-in-law Conor, Sean's partner Dee, grandchildren Aoibheann, Keelan and Muiréad, sister Kathleen (Burns), sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, cousins, relatives and friends.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.

Pat will be reposing in Navin's Funeral Home, Westport on Tuesday March 5th from 5pm - 7pm. Funeral arriving St. Mary's Church, Westport on Wednesday morning March 6th at 11.30am for Mass at 12.30pm. Burial afterwards in Aughavale Cemetery.