A stalwart in Gaelic football circles, Hugh Gerard McCabe, who was well known throughout the County and throughout Ulster, passed away peacefully in the South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen, on Sunday, May 28, 2017, surrounded by his family.

A much loved husband, father and grandfather, late of Mullaghdun, Letterbreen, he was originally from Aughadrumsee, where he was born and raised and educated locally at Aughadrumsee School.

He continued his education at St. Eugene’s College, Rosslea, and then did teacher training in St. Mary’s College, Belfast. During his teaching career, he taught PE in Loughan House, Blacklion.

Hugh met Cathy Jordan from Birmingham and they married in Birmingham on January 21, 1978. They came back and lived in Belfast for a short time; they went to Belcoo for a year or so and then moved to Mullaghdun in 1980. They had a family of five: Sinead, Kelly, Shane, Karina and Stacey, and also a special niece Natasha.

Hugh was very much a family man, being very family orientated and devoted to his family. 

He was heavily involved in sport throughout his life and career. He played gaelic football for many years and played on many teams.

He started with Aughadrumsee and played with Belcoo O’Rahillys, as well as playing at the Ranch (St. Mary’s).

He played for Fermanagh between 1974 to 1981, before taking a break and then played from 1985 to 1988.

In a tribute this week, Fermanagh GAA said it is profoundly saddened to announce the death of former Fermanagh Senior football manager Hugh McCabe who died on Sunday past. 

A representative noted that the 62-year-old Belcoo man, died surrounded by his family, and he said that all at Fermanagh GAA send their deepest condolences to his entire family. A beloved husband of Cathy, he was the dearly loved father of Sinead, Kelly (Mark), Shane (Claire), Karina (Brian) and Stacey.

The spokesman noted: “Hugh played at Centre half back for Fermanagh for over 10 years and managed Fermanagh in the early 90s before managing major Ulster clubs such as Dromore, Errigal Ciaran and Mullahoran all with great distinction.

“The energetic man that Hugh was lit up any room that he went into and he was a real character who will be sorely missed by all. A true gentleman of the game has gone and we remember his great approach to life and pray for his sorrowing family.”

Hugh’s son Shane went on to play for Fermanagh and he was on the team which made the Ulster final in 2008; in addition he had a highly successful career in the Irish League.

Hugh was also actively involved with Blacklion Golf Club where he greatly enjoyed his membership and great friendships. He was heavily involved with the redevelopment of Blacklion Golf Course and he took great enjoyment in Par 3 Hole No. 2 which he designed.

A man, who enjoyed all sports, he supported Man. United throughout his life.

A very outgoing figure, he was a very friendly man, who had a lot of time for everyone. In a tribute this week, his son Shane said his father Hugh had “an infectious smile” and he added that “he had that wee bit of divilment on and off the pitch.”

Hugh’s funeral mass took place yesterday morning, Wednesday, May 31, at St. Joseph’s Church, Mullaghdun; interment followed immediately afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

Sadly missed by all, Hugh is survived by his wife and family, his 10 brothers and sisters, and his seven grandchildren, whom he loved and admired.