SAD LOSS 

Tributes paid to young GAA star who ‘brought great spirit and joy to the field’ whose death is ‘tragedy beyond words’

TRIBUTES have been paid following the heartbreaking death of young Padraig Rafferty following a long illness.

The popular young boy passed away “peacefully in the arms of his parents, sisters and family” at Daisy Hill Hospital in Newry, according to his official funeral notice.

Rafferty was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2023, with his passing prompting a deluge of tributes.

His schoolboy club Redmond O’Hanlon’s led these with a post summing up Padraig’s popularity within the club and community.

It read: “It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of our underage player, Padraig Rafferty.

“The loss of Padraig is a tragedy beyond words, and our entire community is mourning the loss of one of our own.

“Padraig was a proud young footballer who wore the Redmond O’Hanlon’s jersey with great spirit, and we will always remember the dedication and joy he brought to the pitch.

“As a mark of respect to Padraig, all club activities—including all training sessions, matches, and meetings across all age groups—are suspended until further notice.

“During this unimaginably difficult time, we wrap our arms around his father John, his mother Lorraine, and his sisters Grace and Niamh, along with their extended family and friends.

“We stand beside you in your grief. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam óg.”

Silverbridge GFC reposted this tribute with one of its own.

It read: “Silverbridge GFC are deeply saddened to learn of the heartbreaking passing of young Padraig Rafferty of Redmond O’Hanlon’s GAC.

“Our entire club and community extend our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to Padraig’s father John, mother Lorraine, sisters Grace and Niamh, and the entire Rafferty family circle, as well as to everyone at Redmond O’Hanlon’s GAC at this incredibly difficult time.

“The loss of someone so young is truly devastating, and our thoughts and prayers are with all who knew and loved Padraig.

“A proud young footballer, Padraig clearly brought great spirit and joy to the field and will be remembered fondly by teammates, coaches and friends.

“May you find strength in the support of your community in the days ahead. Please know that everyone in Silverbridge stands with you in your grief.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam óg.”

Crossmaglen Rangers GAC also offered its condolences.

The club said: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of Padraig Rafferty, underage player Redmond O’Hanlons GAC Poyntzpass.

“To Padraig’s Mammy & Daddy, Lorraine & John, Sisters, Grace & Niamh, the extended Rafferty family and our fellow Gaels, Redmond O’Hanlon’s, we are truly sorry for your enormous loss of Padraig.

“We are thinking of you all. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Rafferty’s remains will leave his late home in Poyntzpass on Wednesday at 11.30am for 12noon Requiem Mass in St Joseph’s Church, Poyntzpass.

“Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.”