Tributes paid to former Down Camog Deborah Croskery following her passing
Tributes have been paid to former Down Camog and mother-of-two Deborah Croskery following her passing on Wednesday.
Deborah was remembered for her ‘natural talent’ on the camogie field and her ‘final Championship winning appearance for Ballyholland in 2010’.
She passed peacefully at her home in Castlewellan, surrounded by her loving family, following a courageous battle against cancer.
Deborah was a member of both Ballyholland Harps and Castlewellan GAC throughout her sporting life, and she was remembered by both clubs in posts on social media.
Ballyholland Harps remembered her as a ‘proud representative of her county’.
‘It is with great sadness that we at Ballyholland Harps share the news of the passing of our dear friend and camog, Deborah Croskery (Kelland),’ they wrote in a tribute online.
‘Deborah’s first home was Ballyholland, where she began her camogie journey at just 14 years old. From those early days, her love for the game and her natural talent shone through. Over the years, she played a huge role in bringing success to the club, winning numerous junior and intermediate championships. Many of us were lucky enough to take the field alongside her — including in her final championship winning appearance for Ballyholland in 2010.
‘Deborah was also a proud representative of her county, lining out for Down, and making her debut in Croke Park. She’ll be remembered not just for her achievements on the pitch, but for the many friendships she made through the game, here in Ballyholland, Castlewellan and around the county.
‘Our thoughts and prayers are with Deborah’s family her husband Bernard, daughters Cara and Eimear, her parents Eileen and Oliver (RIP) sister Therese (former Camogie Secretary and committee member), brothers Paul & Barry her sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, extended family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.
‘We also extend our heartfelt condolences to the Gaels of Castlewellan GAA where Deborah continued to share her love for camogie — coaching her girls and passing on the same passion that she brought to every team she was part of.
‘We have many happy memories both on and off the pitch with our friend Deborah, taken far too soon.
‘Deborah Croskery (Kelland) RIP
‘Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam’.
Furthermore, Castlewellan GAC remembered Deborah as, ‘a committed club and county coach and she took pride in her role and team success brought her joy.
‘The work of our coaches is highly valued and we have lost one of the best’.
Her remains will repose at her late residence, 23 Wood Grove, Castlewellan today (Thursday) and Friday from 11am until 8pm. Removal on Saturday at 10.30am for 12 noon Requiem Mass in S.S. Patrick & Colman's Cathedral, burial afterwards in Aughlisnafin cemetery.