Known as Shay in Dublin, Seamus in Carlingford, Rambo to the tennis lads, and Dad and Grandad to us.
This month marks four years since we lost our Dad to Sarcoma cancer. It’s hard to believe that so much time has passed when his presence still feels so close. We can almost see him strolling up to the tennis courts on a Saturday evening with his bag slung over his shoulder, walking Bobby over Paddy’s Hill (resembling Paul O’Grady), taking that first long sip of a fresh pint of Guinness in Duffy’s, or breaking into one of his many songs, from Wild Mountain Thyme to Fairytale of New York.
To us, Dad was a legend, and he was loved far and wide. We only came to realise just how many people’s lives he touched after he passed. We often hear stories of his kindness, how much of a gentleman he was, and how he truly listened to everyone, young and old alike.
We miss him more than words can say, but we are forever grateful and proud to have had such an amazing Dad and husband, someone who would always go above and beyond for the people he loved.
Family always came first, but the tennis club was a VERY close second!
We couldn’t finish without a classic Shay Coyle line… Vamos!
"Family always came first, but the tennis club was a VERY close second!"
Shay was undoubtedly a legend of Portmarnock Tennis Club, remembered each year through the Shay Coyle Tournament — a gathering organised by his friends, bringing together members who either knew him personally or have come to appreciate his immeasurable contribution to our club. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Shay’s family for sharing these beautiful words.
Portmarnock Tennis Club Committee
