Heartfelt tributes have poured in after the passing of a young award-winning musician from Co Leitrim, whose “talent touched hearts not only in his local community but across the traditional music world”, reports The Mirror.
Paddy Rooney, a native of Lurganboy in Manorhamilton, died on Thursday (August 7) at the age of 14 following a brief illness.
A highly talented musician, Paddy took part in the All Ireland Fleadh in both 2023 and 2024, performing with his brother Joe. At this year’s 2025 Fleadh in Co Wexford, Tg4 honoured him with a special tribute during the weekend’s events, reports The Mirror.
Paddy, who excelled in both drumming and playing the banjo, has been honoured in moving tributes online, with many remembering him “not only for his remarkable musical gift, but for the ever-present smile he carried with him.”
He was a cherished member of Dromore Comhaltas, who expressed their sorrow in a touching post shared across social media.
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our special friend and talented young musician, Paddy Rooney,” they wrote, reports The Mirror.
“Paddy will be remembered not only for his remarkable musical gift, but for the ever-present smile he carried with him, a bright light in every room, every stage, every competition, and every session. Paddy was the heart and soul of many of our groups and bands over the years. His talent, his kindness, and that infectious smile touched the lives of both young and old. Through his music, he made friends in every corner of Ireland. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Mairead, Michael, Annie, Joe, and to his extended family, friends, and the entire musical community who now mourn this profound loss. May his music and memory continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him. And may he rest in eternal peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis,” reports The Mirror.
Leitrim CCÉ also honoured Paddy with a message of condolence, saying: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Paddy Rooney, a talented young musician and a lovely young man, who left us all too soon in his 14th year after a short illness.
“Paddy’s gift for music, his passion, and the joy he brought to those around him will never be forgotten. His talent touched hearts not only in his local community but across the traditional music world. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Mairead, Michael, Annie and Joe and his extended family, friends, and the entire musical community mourning this profound loss. May his music and memory live on in the hearts of all who loved him, and may he rest in eternal peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis,” reports The Mirror.
Alongside his musical accomplishments, Paddy was also a skilled Irish dancer, having competed at the 2023 World Championship in Montreal.
He danced with the Faragher McLoughlin School, who offered their sympathies to his loved ones after his passing.
“We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Paddy Rooney who was laid to rest yesterday in Leitrim,” the school said in a post shared on social media, reports The Mirror.
“We send our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to Michael, Mairead, Annie and Joe and his extended family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are also with Aidan, Marcus, Clare, Romai and the members of the Faragher McLoughlin School at this time. Paddy was an exceptionally talented young man who will be greatly missed by all. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis,” reports The Mirror.
Paddy had made a name for himself in the traditional music world, particularly for his talent on the banjo, and news of his death sent shockwaves throughout the wider community.
One mourner wrote a tribute to the young musician: “Deepest sympathies to the Rooney family. A heartbreaking loss to bear. Thinking of you all at this difficult time. May Paddy rest in peace,” reports The Mirror.
Another person added: “Sincere condolences to Michael, Mairead, Joe and Annie on the heartbreaking news of Paddy’s passing. It was always so lovely to catch up at the feises and the fleadhs. Paddy was such a talented young man and always so pleasant when we met. May his gentle soul rest in peace and may God comfort you all at this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers,” reports The Mirror.
A third person said: “Sincere sympathy to Mairéad, Michael, Annie, Joe and all the extended O’Toole and Rooney families on the heartbreaking loss of Paddy. Such a talented accomplished young man. May he rest safe in the arms of the angels. You are all in our thoughts and prayers,” reports The Mirror.
While a fourth mourner added: “Mairead, Michael, Annie and Joe, thinking of you all as you mourn the loss of your beautiful son Paddy. I will always remember his brilliant stories about Leitrim and his incredible musical talent. Holding you in my heart and wishing you gentle days ahead,” reports The Mirror.
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