Crossmaglen in mourning after death of club legend Margaret McConville

Margaret McConville, an honorary president of Crossmaglen Rangers, dedicated a lifetime to the GAA

Oisin McConville celebrates with his mother Margaret McConville after Crossmaglen Rangers won the 2011 Armagh SFC final. Pic: Oliver McVeigh / SPORTSFILE

Margaret McConville, the Crossmaglen Rangers club legend and mother of 2002 Armagh All-Ireland winner Oisín McConville, has died aged 90. An honorary president of Crossmaglen Rangers, she was also the grandmother of Armagh footballers Oisín and Rian O'Neill.

In 2011, Margaret was given the President's Award by the GAA, honouring her more than half century involved with Crossmaglen as a player, supporter and administrator. She was club secretary from 1992 - 2003, and subsequently served as assistant secretary. 

"It is with the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of a true Rangers legend, someone who inspired us, who supported and guided us and who dedicated her whole life to the black and amber," the club posted on social media. 

"Holding many different roles over the years, she was hardworking, diligent and passionate.

"We will never see the likes of her again.

"Rest in peace to our esteemed honorary president, Margaret McConville.

"We thank you for your long and dedicated service, it will never be forgotten.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Margaret’s children (All Ireland winning captains, players, committee members, coaches, loyal supporters, members and friends), Ann (Brian), Mairead (Paddy) Dora (Gareth) Jim (Michelle) Jarlath (Geraldine) Sean (Tina) and Oisin (Darina).

"Margaret’s 21 grandchildren & 10 great grandchildren (many are players/ex players), brother & sister, John & Jeanette O’Callaghan, and the entire McConville and Morgan families.

"All club activities are suspended 

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.

"'Come on the Rangers is the cry of every girl and boy. Each hero of the past, we all remember, to Crossmaglen, they’re true and to Armagh football too. Up the Rangers, May God bless the black and amber.'"

Crossmaglen Rangers lifelong supporter Margaret McConville, right, with the cup and Crossmaglen Rangers players, from left, Rian O'Neill, Jamie Clarke, Dara O'Callaghan, captain Jamie Clarke, Cian McConville and Oisin O'Neill, with Dora O'Neill, left, mother of Rian, Oisin and Aaron O'Neill, after 2023 Armagh SFC final. Pic: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

Thomas Niblock, who co-hosts the GAA Social podcast with Oisín McConville, also paid tribute. 

"The world this morning, is a much lesser place," he wrote.

"Margaret McConville died yesterday evening. 90 years gracing us all with her decency, kindness, empathy and love. There was plenty of humour too.

"The head of the ever-growing McConville family. Living in difficult times, she raised a brilliant large family who made her proud every day. Lost a big son Thomas, didn’t blame anyone. Margaret was cut from different cloth. Crossmaglen, Armagh & the GAA. There will never be another like her. Quite simply, a legend."

Oisín McConville managed Wicklow to this year's Tailteann Cup title.

"Wicklow GAA extends its deepest and most sincere condolences to our Senior Football Manager, Oisín McConville, and the extended McConville family on the sad passing of his mother, Margaret," the county board said. 

"A central figure in her family and a lifelong, revered supporter of Crossmaglen Rangers and Armagh GAA, Margaret’s love for the game and dedication to her family were known to all who met her.

"The officers, staff, players, and gaels of Coiste Chontae Chill Mhantáin hold Oisín, his family, and their wide circle of friends in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time."