WELL-KNOWN Ballybofey photographer and local football administrator Gary Foy has been remembered for having a spirit that radiated positivity, warmth and a desire to give back, at his requiem Mass on Tuesday.

Gary (57), of Glencovitt, Ballybofey passed away at Letterkenny University Hospital surrounded by his loving family on Friday, February 6.

Requiem Mass took place on Tuesday in the Church of Mary Immaculate, Stranorlar.

Gary was best known for his love and dedication to soccer in Donegal, alongside his photography.

He was seen often at different grounds around the county and was also a regular at Finn Park.

He was a committee member of his local club, Ballybofey United, for many years, as well as a well-known photographer at Finn Park.

Gary had been a long-time PRO of Ballybofey United, the Donegal Junior League and the East Donegal Schoolboys.

As well as this, Gary founded the Clayshot Magazine and served the position of secretary of the Ulster Clay Target Shooting Association.

Addressing the congregation at Mass, Chief Celebrant, Fr Vincent Finnegan described Gary as a wonderful man and a true gentleman, whose unexpected passing left a deep void in the Twin Towns, the Finn Valley and indeed the wider Donegal community.

“Gary was not just a photographer; he was the eyes of our community,” Fr Finnegan said.

“Born and raised in Ballybofey, he embraced every moment as a spirited soccer and gaelic player in his youth, or a passionate advocate for local sports later in life.

“Gary brought joy to countless events, documenting not just the moments that would be shared in newspapers, but also the simple, quiet joys of life that we often overlook.

“He inherited this gift from his father John, who paved the way for him in the world of photography.

“And just as John was known for his keen eye for detail, so too was Gary, capturing the essence of our shared experiences and immortalising them in the frames of his photographs.

“Each click of Gary’s camera was infused with his spirit, a spirit that radiated positivity, warmth and a desire to give back.”

Fr Finnegan said he never turned down an opportunity to help, often appearing at events on a moment’s notice, camera slung around his neck, ready to serve.

“More than just a photographer, Gary was a source of comfort, a gentle presence that assured everyone that their memories were in good hands,” he said.

“His generosity extended beyond capturing moments, he often offered complimentary discs of additional photographs, little treasures of memories that showed his thoughtfulness and compassion for others.

“His love for sport was evident, whether it was capturing action shots for Ballybofey United or Finn Harps, or attending countless matches across the country, Gary was to be there and Gary was to be found.

“Gary stood on the side-lines, not just as a spectator, but as a contributor, a supporter, and a friend of the teams he photographed.”

Fr Finnegan remembered Gary as an incredible man.

“He was a devoted family man, imparting critical life skills through his craftsmanship and love for carpentry, passed on to his lads,” he said.

“His talents were not just in his art, but also in his ability to shape and build, creating physical manifestations of love within his home.

“And looking around his home in the last few days, I could see his handy work in the furniture beautifully created.

“He was a craftsman of the highest order and also built timber framed houses.

“His hobbies included fishing, shooting and the game of 25 every Thursday evening, and of course, the beloved football.”

After Mass, cremation took place in Lakelands Crematorium in Cavan.

Mr Foy is predeceased by his father John Foy.

He is the beloved husband of Carmel, much loved father of Catherine (James), Conor (Eilish), Sian (Shane) and Ciaran (Niamh), and the dearly loved grandfather of Odhran, Cadhla and Eabha.