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'He had a huge heart': Elderly man who died in Clare house fire named locally
Joe Vaughan was a former teacher and Honorary Life President at Moy GAA
Following the shocking news, many condolences have been paid to the well-known and admired man
Reporter:
Ellie McCarthy
28 Aug 2025 10:22 AM
The man whose life was claimed by a house fire in Clare has been named locally as Joe Vaughan.
On Wednesday, August 27, Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of a fatal fire, which occurred at a family residence in Moymore.
Sadly, Mr Vaughan, who was aged in his 70s, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The fire was extinguished by Clare County Fire Service and the scene is currently preserved pending a technical examination.
The local coroner has been notified and a post-mortem examination is to be arranged.
Following the shocking news, many condolences have been paid to the well-known and admired man.
In a heartfelt tribute on social media, Moy GAA stated, "It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our friend and Moy GAA Honorary Life President, Joe Vaughan.
"Joe was a lifelong Moy GAA stalwart. He proudly won a Junior Championship with the club in 1986, a title that would be Moy’s last until the Division 7 League win in 2012. He was a familiar face at every game and many training sessions, living and breathing Moy GAA every day.
"Ahead of our recent League Final victory, Joe rallied the players and management at the final training session, reminding everyone of the immense privilege it is to represent Moy. His passion, wisdom and unwavering support inspired all who knew him.
"Joe will be deeply missed by his family, especially his brother Michael, his two sisters Mary Browne and Anne Roche and his nephew Alan, our club Chairman, as well as by the entire Moy GAA community," they concluded.
Taking to the comments of this emotional post were many more who knew Joe.
One person said, "I’m heartbroken at the loss of my great friend for close to 60 years and associated with him in Dublin since 1979 where he was a teacher in Colaiste Dhulaigh and was so popular with everyone in regards teaching, running the football team, the boxing and it’s true to say that Joe’s influence on a lot of lads kept them on the straight and narrow. He loved his beloved Moy GAA Club and I had the pleasure to referee all his home school games. He never looked for favours but was an inspiration on the sideline to his pupils. Joe was a man who never 'showed the white feather.' I’m going to miss my old friend so much"
Another commented, "Joe taught me in Colaiste Dhulaigh Coolock for several years. He had a huge heart and he kept many a friend on the straight and narrow through their involvement in boxing. He knew some had little else going for them and donated his time and care to them. I was very sad to hear of his tragic passing. He was a good one, may he rest in peace."
A third stated, "I am shocked and saddened by the loss of Joe a life long friend. RIP. My condolences to all the family."
The late man's funeral arrangements are expected to be announced later. May he rest in peace.
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