Passing of GAA legend Eugene ‘Nudie’ Hughes
The Castleblayney man died Monday, November 3, surrounded by his devoted family.
Monaghan is mourning the loss of one of its greatest ever footballers, Eugene 'Nudie' Hughes, who has passed away peacefully at the age of 67.
The Castleblayney man died Monday, November 3, surrounded by his devoted family and cared for with immense love at his home.
A three-time All-Star and widely regarded as Monaghan’s finest footballer, Hughes was diagnosed with cancer in 2018.
In 2024, the Gaelic Players Association recognised his extraordinary career by honouring him with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Hughes, who lived on York Street in Castleblayney and was formerly of Finglas, Dublin, etched his name into GAA history when he became Monaghan’s first-ever All-Star in 1979. He went on to claim two more All-Star awards in 1985 and 1989.
Those celebrated seasons coincided with Monaghan’s Ulster Championship triumphs, while in 1985, Hughes added a National Football League medal to his impressive collection.
He also won a Railway Cup with Ulster in 1984 and two Ulster club titles with his beloved Castleblayney Faughs.
Monaghan GAA led tributes to their legendary son, saying: “It is with deep and profound sadness that Monaghan GAA has learned of the passing of one of our greatest ever players, Eugene ‘Nudie’ Hughes – a true legend of Monaghan football and a three-time All-Star recipient.
“Nudie’s contribution to our county, both on and off the field, was immense. His skill, passion and leadership inspired generations, and his name will forever be synonymous with Monaghan’s proud footballing tradition.
“Nudie fought his illness with immense courage and dignity, just as he played the game – with heart and determination.”
Predeceased by his parents, Patrick and Margaret, Mr Hughes will be deeply missed by his loving family, his many friends, and the wider GAA community who cherished him.
Reposing will take place at Massey Bros. Funeral Home, Main Street, Finglas (D11 ET7P), on Tuesday, November 4, from 11am to 1pm, and at Ward’s Funeral Home, Dublin Road, Castleblayney (A75 NP30), on Wednesday, November 5, from 5pm to 8pm.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, November 6, at 11am in St. Mary’s Church, Castleblayney, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. The funeral cortège will leave his former family home on York Street at 10.30am and travel on foot to the church.
House strictly private, please. Family flowers only. Donations, if desired, may be made to the Castleblayney Cancer Society or St. Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown, c/o any family member or Martin’s Funeral Directors.
Nudie’s Funeral Mass can be viewed live at https://www.churchservices.tv/muckno.