Mr Cassidy aged in his early sixties died suddenly on Friday. Mourners packed St Macartan’s Church, Trillick yesterday morning as Fr McKenna lead the requiem Mass. Burial followed at nearby Magheralough Cemetery.

Trillick’s Tyrone Championship win over Clonoe on Sunday was preceded by a minute’s silence in tribute to one of its best-known former players.

Posting to social media St Macartan’s GAA club commenting on Mr Cassidy’s passing said, “We offer our sincere condolences and sympathy to wife Carmel, the family and friends of former player and manager Ray Cassidy.

“Ray served Trillick as player and manager, playing for Trillick seniors from the 70’s through to the 90’s winning many titles along the way.

“He was renowned for his fitness, determination and unerring accuracy from the placed ball. He also served as our senior team manager for a period in the 90’s.”

Trillick Councillor Mary Garrity said Mr Cassidy will be fondly remembered within the community. 

“The village and football community were very much saddened and shocked on Friday when word broke that Ray passed away suddenly. He has been away from the village for a number of years but he remains very famous around this neck of the woods. 

“I believe he holds five championships and seven league titles which speaks for itself in terms of achievement. There wouldn’t be too many knocking about with that in their back pocket. He worked hard as part of a successful Trillick team in years gone by. 

“He had a tremendous career here and was highly thought of. Anyone you speak to only had good words to say about his character off the field as well as on it. It’s sad to lose such a legend, that is for sure. That is the way life can turn, it can be nasty. Our thoughts are with his wife at this time.”

Ray is survived by wife Carmel and wider family circle. The funeral was co-ordinated by O’Kane Bros funeral directors with donations in lieu of flowers made to the Chest, Heart and Stroke Association.