A Lifetime of Service: Celebrating Eddie Cunningham, a true Waterford legend
Eddie Cunningham, Tallow
In every community, there are a few rare people whose actions, values, and generosity leave a mark that lasts for generations.
In Tallow, one of those people is Eddie Cunningham.
His name is woven into the story of the parish — through sport, voluntary work, and his constant willingness to step up whenever something needs to be done.
Eddie’s journey with Tallow GAA began in extraordinary fashion.
At just 14 years of age, when most of us were still finding our feet, Eddie took on the role of club secretary.
It was the start of a lifetime of service to his club.
Over the years, he has held every position possible — from treasurer to chairman — and today he proudly serves as President.
In the 1980s, Eddie guided the Tallow senior hurling team through one of its greatest eras, managing them to county title glory in 1980 and then back-to-back wins in 1984 and 1985.
Those teams, and those days, have gone down in local history, and they would not have happened without Eddie’s leadership and belief in the players.
He was also manager of various Waterford teams at minor, U21, and intermediate level — further proving his ability to inspire and lead at the highest levels of the sport.
His influence didn’t stop at the parish boundary. Eddie has served as Chairman of the Western Board, worked on the County Referees Committee, represented Waterford on the County Committee, and served on the Inter-County Referee Assessors panel for Croke Park.
His work has shaped the game at every level — club, county, and national.
But Eddie’s contribution to Tallow is about far more than hurling.
He is a retired sacristan of Tallow Parish, a founding board member of St Carthage’s Hospital in Lismore, a member of the St. Patrick’s Hall Committee, and a long-serving member of the Credit Union Board.
He has given years of service to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, quietly helping those in need, and organised the Tallow Youth Club in St. Patrick’s Hall, giving young people a safe place to meet and belong.
He has served on the Board of Management of Tallow Primary School and was Chairperson of the Parents Council in Lismore Presentation Secondary School.
On top of all that, Eddie is a Peace Commissioner — a role that reflects the trust and respect he has earned.
Speaking personally, I’ve always looked up to Eddie — not just for what he’s done, but for how he’s done it.
Without fuss, without ego, and always with the good of the community at heart.
He’s the kind of person who inspires you to get involved, to give your time, and to believe that one person really can make a difference.
Eddie Cunningham’s story is one of quiet determination, generosity of spirit, and unwavering commitment to others. Tallow, Waterford, and the GAA are all richer for his lifetime of service.
