19 August 1999 Edition
Fógraí bháis: Kevin Gray
REPUBLICANS from Dundalk were deeply saddened by the recent death of Kevin Gray. Kevin died on his 53rd birthday after a battle against cancer during which his dignity and strength of character were there for all to see.
Originally from the close-knit Quay area of the town, Kevin joined the Republican Movement at the age of 16. Although he was arrested on numerous occasions, he was never convicted of anything.
When all hell broke loose in the occupied Six Counties, Kevin was not found wanting. As well as being a courageous and trusted Volunteer of Oglaigh na hÉireann, he was to the forefront in finding billets for the stream of refugees who fled the pogroms. It was around this time that he formed a firm friendship with Ardoyne republican Martin Meehan, who gave a moving and sometimes funny oration at Kevin's funeral, which I am sure Kevin would have enjoyed.
In later years, Kevin worked for all branches of the Republican Movement and indeed the full extent of his involvement will only be revealed when Ireland is free.
For myself, I remember Kevin as a warm, generous comrade who was always to the point and never beat around the bush. If Kevin Gray had a bone to pick with you, he certainly picked it!
To his wife Ann, his children and his large circle of family and friends, the entire Republican Movement extends its deepest sympathy.
I measc laochra na nGael go raibh a anam dilís cróga.
- A comrade.
Originally from the close-knit Quay area of the town, Kevin joined the Republican Movement at the age of 16. Although he was arrested on numerous occasions, he was never convicted of anything.
When all hell broke loose in the occupied Six Counties, Kevin was not found wanting. As well as being a courageous and trusted Volunteer of Oglaigh na hÉireann, he was to the forefront in finding billets for the stream of refugees who fled the pogroms. It was around this time that he formed a firm friendship with Ardoyne republican Martin Meehan, who gave a moving and sometimes funny oration at Kevin's funeral, which I am sure Kevin would have enjoyed.
In later years, Kevin worked for all branches of the Republican Movement and indeed the full extent of his involvement will only be revealed when Ireland is free.
For myself, I remember Kevin as a warm, generous comrade who was always to the point and never beat around the bush. If Kevin Gray had a bone to pick with you, he certainly picked it!
To his wife Ann, his children and his large circle of family and friends, the entire Republican Movement extends its deepest sympathy.
I measc laochra na nGael go raibh a anam dilís cróga.
- A comrade.