Great sadness in Tipperary as 1971 All-Ireland medal winner passes away

There was great sadness around the Premier County in the past week, at the news of the passing of All-Ireland winning Tipperary full-back John Kelly.

The former Tipp number three was a mainstay in the blue and gold when the Premier County defeated Kilkenny in the 1971 All-Ireland SHC final and also won a U21 medal in 1967. 

John also won both a Fitzgibbon Cup medal and a Cork senior championship medal with UCC, and was a proud member of the Cappawhite GAA club, and went on to write his club's history some years ago. 

He also served as Cappawhite Club Chairman from 1981 to 1984.

John was a secondary teacher and was very highly regarded all over Tipperary and beyond for his contribution both as a hurler, teacher, and community worker.