“He was a community hero in the truest sense, the likes of which we’ll never see again”
Tributes have poured in for a west Belfast football club chairman who was “dedicated to his community, the youth, his football club” and his family.
Jim McKee, an 81-year-old from Grosvenor Road, sadly died after he was struck by a vehicle in the Genoa Street area on Saturday morning, police said.
A volunteer who fulfilled many roles including chairman at Immaculata Football Club, there have been moving tributes to Mr McKee from the local football fraternity and community in west Belfast following news of his tragic death.
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His own club, Immaculata, said everyone is “absolutely heartbroken” at the passing of their chairman and “stalwart”.
In a statement published on social media following confirmation he had lost his life after the collision on Saturday, a club spokesperson said: “Our immediate thoughts are with his beloved partner Nuala, his children Conor, Dáire and Nuala, and his extended family. We know the entire community will rally around them in the coming days and weeks.
“Jim McKee meant many things to many people. To us, he was a dedicated volunteer, coach, manager, chairman, supporter, friend and mentor – a true pillar of our club. He devoted his life to Immaculata, working tirelessly for decades to ensure its growth and success on and off the pitch.
“As a club from the Falls, we’re often told we punch above our weight. That is down to Jim and his vision, his graft, and his love for this community. His legacy will live on for generations.
“Like so many, we have countless fond memories of Jim, but the Premier Division success of 2016 and the Intermediate Cup win of 2024 stand out. Jim, beaming with pride and happiness, in the middle of the celebrations, and rightly so.”
The club statement added: “Even in later years, Jim was a constant presence. Whether it was the U10s, the seconds or the firsts, he was there, through good times and bad, cheering, guiding and always willing to help. Jim wanted the very best for this club and for people across the Falls. He was a community hero in the truest sense, the likes of which we’ll never see again.
“Though Jim is no longer with us, his spirit will never leave Immaculata. Every game played, every young player coming through, every success we celebrate will carry his mark. Rest easy, Jim. Thank you for everything. We’ll make sure the Mac keeps making you proud.”
Councillor for the area Christina Black said: “The entire community is heartbroken at the tragic passing of Jim McKee. My deepest condolences go to his partner Nuala, his sons Conor and Dáire, his daughter Nuala, and the wider McKee family. I can only imagine their pain, but I know the people of the Falls will stand with them in the difficult days ahead.
“Jim meant so much to so many. The Jim McKee I knew was wholeheartedly dedicated to his community, the youth, his football club, and, above all, his family. He gave so much of his life to our local club and will always be remembered as Mr Immaculata. Very rarely did he miss a training session or a match, always on hand to offer advice, guidance and support.”
She added: “In today’s world, the word ‘legend’ is often overused, but Jim truly was one. He embodied the spirit of a community champion and will forever be remembered as one of our own. Rest in peace, Jim. You were an absolute gentleman and we will always be grateful.”
St. Peter’s Immaculata Youth Centre also published a tribute to the dedicated volunteer, saying: “It is with deep sadness that we learned of the tragic passing of Jim McKee, a true pillar of our community. Jim was a man whose life was defined by service, generosity, and love for the people around him.
“He gave tirelessly of himself in so many ways, as a dedicated volunteer in the Cathedral, a constant friend and advocate for our pensioners, and a guiding hand for generations of young people. Jim’s vision and commitment were instrumental in the creation of Immaculata FC where he not only managed football teams but also built a sense of belonging, discipline, and pride that has touched countless lives. His influence extended into the heart of our youth centre, where his dedication helped shape a safe and vibrant space for young people to grow and thrive.”
A spokesperson for the centre added: “Jim’s legacy is immense. He was more than a community worker – he was a leader, a mentor, and a true stalwart whose quiet determination and boundless energy changed lives. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt, but his work, spirit, and example will continue to inspire us for many years to come. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Nuala and the entire McKee family at this devastating time. Please know that Jim’s community stands with you, holding you in love, gratitude, and solidarity.”
St Oliver Plunkett FC 1969 said he will be “sorely missed” as the club expressed hope his family and friends “find comfort and warmth in the memories he created through his positive and inspiring work”.
Shankill United Football Club also paid tribute, saying: “Over the years we’ve always had a great relationship with ‘The Mac’ and Jim has always been very kind and welcoming to all involved with our club. We pass on our sincere sympathy and condolences to Jim’s immediate and wider family circle. And of course to all those in the Immaculata FC family.”
Falls Road Shamrocks C.S.C described him as “a great friend to many of our members” who also coached “many of them over the decades of his unbelievable work within the lower Falls community”.
The club added: “The Falls Road community will never forget Jim for his selfless work over many many years.”
Grosvenor Rec said Mr McKee had been “a shining light for decades” who had “helped more people than he could ever have known”.
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