Kit Mitchell – A Tribute from Killyon

It is with a profound sense of sadness and loss that we learned in recent days of the passing of Christopher (Kit) Mitchell to his eternal reward.

The words legend and hero are often used to describe a person’s contribution to sport and to us at Killyon Hurling Club, Kit was both a legend and a hero.  His untiring selfless dedication to and work for the club and his concern for its welfare and the welfare of his players and supporters will forever be the benchmark to which the club will aspire.

Kit watched as the club grew and developed to what it is today and this development was due in no small way to his vision, determination, and hard work.

Kit was first elected in 1966 as Club Chairman, and he continued to serve in that position for 19 years.  During that reign, he saw the club come from a Junior Club to win three Senior Hurling titles consecutively.  Not only was he chairman at this time but team manager.  He also found time to play himself and was proud to say he held four Junior Hurling Championship medals in four different decades 1968, 1976, 1981, & in 1991 he came off the bench against Donaghmore Ashbourne to score the winning goal.

During this period, he spearheaded the development of the club ground, the provision of dressing rooms, & enhanced facilities for players and supporters alike. In 1992, Kit was heavily involved in the setup and running of our current club lotto.

Underage hurling was a priority for Kit and he left no stone unturned in ensuring and that youngsters in the area were afforded every opportunity and encouragement to excel at hurling.

In 1993, Kit was re-elected as Chairman and he held this position to date. In 2024, Kit was hoping to complete his 50th year as Chairman.  During his years as Chairman, he was proud to see the Club awarded Club of the Year in 1976, 1981, & 2005. Kit was also involved in many positions within Meath County Board.  As recognition for his hard work at club & county level, he was enrolled into “The Meath Hall of Fame” in 2013.

Not only was Kit the chief driving force behind Killyon Hurling Club but also a driving force for community activities in Killyon.  These activities included the church choir, management of St Mary’s Cemetery Killyon, and many more.  Kit had a great love of horse racing and enjoyed his annual trip to Listowel.  His early working life involved in the construction industry, where he built many of our local homes.  In later years he retired to his love of farming.

We have lost a true great, a gentleman, and a wonderful role model.  There is so much we could write in tribute to Kit but suffice to say, that his contribution to our Club will remain in the hearts and minds of Killyon Hurling Club members forever.  Kit has etched a special notch in each home in the club, parish and extended Meath GAA Community.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Kit’s sister Nuala, brothers Jimmy & Anthony, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and the extended Mitchell family.