A North Clare firefighter, GAA Coach, Tradesman and Charity fundraiser extraordinaire who passed away following a tragic accident last week has been described as “the salt of the earth at his funeral mass”.
Clouna Church in Ennistymon was packed to capacity today to say goodbye to their own Joe Crosse.
The voice of the late Joe Crosse there speaking to Clare FM’s Morning Focus in December 2021, at that point of the year, Joe had completed 51 of his 52 weekly marathons to raise funds for the Lauralynn Foundation.
On this occasion, Joe raised over 10% of the national target for the Irish Children’s Hospice through his own efforts alone and this feat came just seven years after running 100 miles to repair Lahinch Playground following severe storm damage.
Last year, Joe even ran for 24 hours straight at the annual Relay for Life event in support of the Irish Cancer Society.
However his community influence did not stop there, he served as a retained firefighter in Ennistymon for over 20 years and was most recently sub-station officer.
Joe was also heavily involved in Ennistymon GAA Club, having coached U-7, U-9 and U-11 teams.
Ennistymon GAA Chair and Local Councillor Shane Talty says he was a warm and kind individual who will be sorely missed by all aspects of the community.
Speaking at today’s funeral mass Ennistymon Parish Priest and Chief Celebrant Fr Des Forde says Joe was the salt of the earth in everything he did.
A number of gifts were brought to the altar during the mass, including Joe’s fire helmet, his running shoes, a Gaelic Football, a trowel, Jaffa Cakes and a toblerone, the latter of which signified his love of family time.
His sister Patricia says he was kind, selfless and thoroughly devoted to his family.
Joe’s twin-sister Joanne meanwhile told the congregation of his love for animals too and his unique sense of humor.
Joe is survived by his wife Brid, children Teagan and Odhran and wide circle of extended family and friends.
May he rest in peace.
You can listen to the full report here.
