Each year brings the passing of many notable and much loved GAA figures. Not just at national level but in clubs up and down the country as well. Each of them, in their own way, leaves an indelible legacy behind them.

In 2010, a man died who left a bigger gap in our hearts than many, especially among the people of Roscommon - Lieutenant-General Dermot Earley, Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces.

In his annual book 'The Championship 2010' another famous son of Roscommon, RTÉ's renowned Gaelic Games Correspondent and match commentator, Brian Carthy, recalls his personal memories of Dermot Earley - the Gorthaganny man, the footballer, the husband and father, the soldier.

Brian's book is in all Eason's shops from next week. We are pleased to carry, exclusively, excerpts from his memoir of Dermot - Memories of Dermot Earley - and to pay this pictorial tribute to a great Gael.

Photos courtesy of SPORTSFILE


Dermot Earley at the height of his powers in 1985


Croke Park 1980, Dermot celebrates defeating Armagh with his son, David


Only hours after burying his father, Dermot turns out for Kildare in the championship.


Two Dermots - proud father and proud son


Dermot was immensely proud of his family,as they were of him. With his wife, Mary, and daughter, Noelle, when she received a Ladies Football All Star Award


Dermot Earley 1948 - 2010
Leaba i measc laochra Ros Chomáin go raibh aige