REMEMBERING JOHN KELLEHER

John Kelleher, a true St Mary’s stalwart and supporter, has died at the age of 93.

We recently learned of the death of John Kelleher, a true St Mary’s stalwart.

John, who died just shy of his 94^th birthday, was the proud father of two highly talented sons who attended St Mary’s one of whom was, without question, the finest cricketer to emerge from the school.

John, a docker from Bermondsey and described once as ‘the archetypal London gentleman’ suffered great tragedy in his life.

Michael, who started in 1968, was followed nine years later by Daniel. Daniel went on to represent Kent at cricket before tragically taking his own life in 1995 aged 29.

Michael died a few years ago aged 63.

For many years John ran the social club at St Lawrence’s Church in Sidcup. He converted to Catholicism in his 70s and became very active in the parish.

Paddy Norton, a superb rugby player who attended St Mary’s between 1968 and 1976, and was friends with Michael remembers:

“John was a charming man who I got to know quite well having played football for Dartford Glentworth (John was their coach/manager).

 “John always looked after us in the food and drink department and we all enjoyed his company. RIP John.”

John was a fine sportsman himself and it was no real surprise that his sons should follow in his footsteps.

John was a familiar figure on the touchline or by the boundary at St Mary’s rugby or cricket matches. He would follow Michael and Daniel through thick and thin and in all weathers.

The Kellehers originally lived off Sidcup Hill but moved to Bexleyheath in the early 80s. John’s late wife Joan was legendary for providing many a St Mary’s boy (including myself) with huge plates of wonderful, home-cooked food.

As well as losing Michael and Daniel, John and Joan also lost daughter Geraldine at a relatively early age.

Two more daughters, Joanne and Janine survive:

Janine, who cared for John in his later years when dementia took hold, said: “Dad was a gentleman. A really good man who loved St Mary’s and the parish.”

RIP John.