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The Cork sports community has rallied in sadness over the sudden death of one of the great football fans in Leeside.
John Kennedy was a volunteer, supporter and, for many, the heart of Cork City FC for more than three decades. John was also well known for his youth work on the north side of Cork and throughout the city with the youth group Foróige.
Tributes started pouring in last night, Cork Beo reports, when news of Kennedy’s sudden death spread yesterday afternoon.
Cork City said today: “Everyone at Cork City Football Club is devastated by the news that John Kennedy has passed away. Our thoughts are with John’s family and his many friends.
“John, a volunteer at the club for over 30 years and a former member of the Board of Directors, was known to fans of the League of Ireland across the country for his loyalty, enthusiasm and love for Cork City FC .
“Through the Family Enclosure, John organized buses to take supporters to and from almost every away game, and he was a recognizable face for all Rebel Army supporters.
“It was through John and his work with the Family Enclosure that many of us got to experience Turner’s Cross and ultimately fell in love with our club.
“John made all the families a fun, colorful, and noisy experience when they visited the Cross, and many returned. John was the epicenter of our club’s role and work in the community, making our club a home to many. of them less fortunate.
“We will all miss him, but we will never forget him.”
Cork TD Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire said: “RIP John Kennedy. A true gentleman and staunch man of the city. Huge loss. Condolences to his family and all who knew and loved him.”
Cork City FC supporter Pat Curran summed up the thoughts of many City faithful, posting on social media: “RIP John Kennedy. A gentleman and a good friend to me when I was working at Cork City FC.”
“I can safely say that I never met anyone who had a greater passion for his club. He made the fans feel so important.”
“Many lifelong City fans knew the cross as children.”
Cllr Tony Fitzgerald said: “Tonight a wave of sadness in the youth and community sector.”
“John was always kind and generous with time. Always in touch with the needs of young people. My condolences to his family and friends.”
Cork City FC is expected to pay tribute to John Fitzgerald at the next home game at Turner’s Cross. His loss will be felt in the club and throughout the Leeside sports community for some time to come.
Some fans have already suggested that the club could name a stand at Turner’s Cross in memory of the club’s great stalwart player lost in sudden and tragic circumstances yesterday afternoon.
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