Munster Express Online

The friends were legion who learned with a deep sense of grief of the demise of Paddy Godfrey, Pond Villas, Tramore who was pre-deceased by his wife Philomena in 2006 and his infant son Myles in 1963.

Aged eighty-two years, Paddy was one of nature’s special gentlemen who always gave of himself wholeheartedly when a helping hand was required. Many tributes have been paid to his memory but the finest was provided mutely at the removal to holy Cross Church. The grief and heartfelt sympathy of everyone in the huge concourse was evident in this fitting tribute, with Order of Malta members from Tramore and far beyond paying their own special tribute to a leader who was an inspiration to all.

Assisted by Fr. Tom Rogers, Holy Family Parish, Waterford and National Cadet Chaplain Order of Malta and a family friend Fr. Tom Hogan, Dublin and Tramore, Monsignor Michael Olden P.P. celebrated the Requiem Mass. In his homily, he said that Paddy was a very highly respected man in this community and beyond it. It was nice to see so many members of the Order of Malta present to pay their respects and show their appreciation for Paddy’s great work over the years. His life was crowded and interesting and above all full of goodness and Christian living.

The church was an important building in his life and another major cornerstone was the pond Road headquarters of the Order of Malta. His father Michael was a founder member in 1945 and when he died in 1971 Paddy took over as leader and remained at the helm until his health declined. He was the supreme volunteer, the ultimate good Samaritan on a daily basis. He was by deep instinct a sympathetic and understanding person when dealing with illness, death and bereavement. As well as efficiency he brought a kindness, gentleness, refinement of manner and a dignity that was Christianity at its very best. Paddy dealt so beautifully, not just with the sick or injured person, but the family who were broken hearted or traumatised by shock or grief. Accounts of his kindness, thought fullness of manner towards those in trouble are everywhere to be heard. Mention was made of another towering Christian, Nurse Ann Flynn of Love Lane who worked with Paddy as a key person in Tramore Order of Malta and died in 2001.

For decades Paddy supervised the collection of rents in the Tramore, Carbally, Dunmore East region. His Christian concern was experienced by others as he crossed the thresholds of countless houses and dealt with families through the ups and downs of their lives. Paddy listened to many a sad tale and his visit to any house was the visit of Christ who was his model all of his life.

The burial took place in St. Patrick’s Cemetery.

Deepest sympathy in their sad loss is extended to his bereaved daughters Maria and Tracy, sons-in-law Tom and Vincent, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, extended family and many friends. May he Rest In Peace.