Tributes paid to Down legend Kieran Denvir

Tributes paid to Down legend Kieran Denvir

17 August 2022

TRIBUTES have been  paid to Down football legend Kieran Denvir following his death on August 9. He was 90 years old.

An All-Ireland winner with his county in 1960, the Kilclief native was and continues to be, recognised as part of a golden era in Down’s history.

Ulster GAA secretary Brian McAvoy described Mr Denvir as a “gentleman”.

“He was part of that historic breakthrough team of 1960 that brought Sam across the border for the first time,” he said.

“Another link in that 1960 chain is gone, but his memory lasts.”

Down GAA also released a statement honouring the life of one of the great players to have donned the red and black.

“Coiste Chontae an Dúin and the family that is Down GAA are saddened to learn of the death of Kieran Denvir, member of the 1960 All-Ireland winning team,” said the statement.

“Kieran came from a family steeped in the heritage of Down GAA; his father James Denvir had been the first chairperson of the county committee in 1903.

“A native of Ballynarry in Kilclief, Kieran followed in the footsteps of his older brother Brian and made his Ulster Championship debut against Derry in 1953. 

“It ended in a three-point defeat for Down and Kieran was then listed as playing for UCD where he was a veterinary student.”

Kieran’s brother Brian was also a member of the Down senior hurling team who competed in the Ulster Junior Championship.

Exactly 63 years before his passing, Kieran played at right corner forward on the Down team that defeated Cavan in the Ulster final. 

This was a historic achievement as he became part of the first Ulster senior title winning Down team.

“History was made, and the Kilclief brothers Kieran and Brian Denvir as a selector, had played their part on and off the field,” said Down GAA.

“In the All-Ireland final of 1960 Kieran replaced Joe Lennon at midfield in the second half of the game as Down went on to defeat Kerry 2-10 to 0-8 and we were crowned champions. 

“The men of 1960 will always have a special place in the hearts and minds of Down people and indeed of GAA people throughout the land and beyond these shores.

“Kieran Denvir was one of those men, the history makers, a man of stature, and a man of modesty. He represented his club, his university, captaining UCD to a Sigerson Cup win, his county, and his province.”

“Kieran played for Kilclief, UCD and Ballina James Stephens at inter county level.

“Down GAA wish to extend their sympathy to his children Fiona, Mark, Paula, Rory, Angus and Ciara, his son in law Pete and daughters in law, Moira, Annette and Andrea and his grandchildren.

“Down GAA also remember his late wife Monica and the deceased members of the Denvir family. To the gaels of Kilclief Down GAA extend their sympathies.

Mr Denvir was laid to rest following Requiem Mass at St Colman’s Church, Massforth, Kilkeel on Saturday.