Benny was one of a family of Doyle brothers who had given such wonderful service to our club over many years.  All four, Kevin, Terry, Benny and Marty had played on many league and cup winning sides, which must have been some sort of record, and they had all been great contributors to the club after those days were over. 

Among Benny's contributions was, in his vice-presidential year, to undertake the task of building a terrace on the lakeside. He had the good sense to cajole his friend, the late Mick Flynn, to undertake the role of builder, Benny was the foreman, and he press ganged about a dozen members/labourers to do the heavy work over many weekends. The result was that a slippery slope was transformed into a terrace which still serves the spectators all these years later. 

Benny was honoured with the presidency of our club in the 1997/98 season. 

That summer he led a touring party of more than fifty players, golfers and tourists on a five-match tour in South Africa. This was a memorable tour where the matches were tough and the highlight was against, what was known as, a disadvantaged side. We had a wonderful evening in their club, where our president sent out for a plentiful supply of beer and insisted that we would all donate whatever Terenure gear we could for the use of their members. 

On another evening, we were invited to the residence of the Irish Ambassador to South Africa, Mr Eamonn O'Tuathail, who during his welcoming speech noted that, some years previously, he had lived in Lakelands Park. He then introduced the European Ambassador, Mr Erwin Mojer, a Frenchman who had asked to be allowed to address the guests. He said that it was a great pleasure for him to be present on this occasion because he and his older brother had been pupils in Terenure College and that he had been in our president's brother, Terry's, class.  

Both diplomats were used to public speaking, but Benny was in a different class altogether and entertained the guests with a marvellous speech. 

For many years previously, Benny had regaled members and friends at dinners, functions and whenever he was requested to do so, with his wonderfully witty speeches, delivered with great clarity and peppered throughout with punchlines which would bring the roof down. 

He was forever being asked to speak at other club's functions and was the most welcome guest because he was certain to entertain. 

After his presidential term was over, Benny was our most capable representative to the Leinster Branch, taking the place of Eddie Coleman and he represented our club with an equal ability.

Benny was the best of company, a dear friend to so many and a great Terenure man.

To his wife, Sandra, his daughters Sarah and Nina, his son Graham, his sister Ann and his brother Marty and the wider family, we extend our deepest sympathy.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam

CJ

Link to Funeral Details >>