Tributes have been paid to a Laois teenager who tragically passed away in Timahoe yesterday.
15-year-old Ronan McNamara is survived by his parents Paul and Yvonne and his sister Orlaith.
Ronan was a talented sports person. He played football for Stradbally Parish Gaels and they described him as a ‘smashing young man’.
They said: “As you are all aware by now, we lost a very special young man, Ronan McNamara, who was a member of our minor squad.
“Only last Sunday, Ronan lined out with his teammates and gave his all as he has always done for the team.
“Ronan was a smashing young man and it was an honour and privilege to have been part of his journey.
“We are all heartbroken for Ronan his dad Paul his mam Yvonne his sister Orlaith all the McNamara and Smyth families and friends.
“You are in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace Ronan. Ar Dheis De go Raibh a Anam.”
Ronan was also a talented rugby player and his club, Portlaoise, paid tribute to him.
He was also a student in Portlaoise CBS and Portlaoise RFC confirmed that the school will open this afternoon to provide support to his classmates and friends.
They said: “It was with great shock and sadness that Portlaoise RFC learned of the death of Ronan McNamara.
“Ronan was part of last year’s U/16’s team, was a very popular young lad and a super rugby player.
“Ronan was a pupil of Portlaoise CBS and it will open this afternoon from 2-4pm for friends and classmates to gather.
“School counsellors and psychologists will be on hand for support.
May Ronan Rest In Peace.”
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