The grieving family of an 11-yr-old boy from Co Offaly who died over the weekend have said he “brought joy and laughter to everyone who knew him”.
Bobby Dunne, from Grogan in Ballycumber, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday at Portiuncula University Hospital, reports The Mirror.
The young schoolboy’s family shared the heartbreaking news in a death notice published on RIP.ie.
“It is with deep sadness and heartbreak that we announce the passing of our beloved Bobby, who died on May 2nd 2026, unexpectedly with his family at Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe at just 11 years of age,” they said, reports The Mirror.
“He was predeceased by his much-loved grandad Liam, who will welcome him with open arms.
“Bobby was the cherished and dearly loved son of Annalene and Brian and a much adored younger brother to Jack, treasured grandson of Mick and Jackie Tyrrell and Gemma Dunne.
“He will be deeply missed by his uncles Ross (Jill), Kenneth (Laura), Sandra (Patrick Rip.) and Billy, and will be forever loved by his cousins Fianna, Liam, Caitlin, Christian, Megan, Cillian, Lennie and Rowen, along with his extended family, neighbours and school friends in Boher NS,”, reports The Mirror.
Paying tribute, Bobby’s devastated family added: “Bobby was a little character full of charm and personality, who brought joy and laughter to everyone who knew him.
“May He Rest in Peace. Forever loved and never forgotten,”, reports The Mirror.
The Dunne family are well known for their involvement in local GAA clubs in Ballycumber, with Brosna Gaels Camogie Club confirming that training was cancelled on Monday evening as a mark of respect for Bobby.
“May the beautiful Bobby rest in peace,” the club said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his mam, dad and big brother, as well as the extended Dunne and Tyrrell families,”, reports The Mirror.
Bobby was a pupil at Boher National School, where staff and the board of management extended their sympathies to his family and classmates during this difficult time.
“Deepest sympathy to the Dunne and Tyrrell families on the untimely passing of Bobby,” the school said, reports The Mirror.
“Also sincere condolences to all the staff and pupils in Boher N S., on the loss of their friend. We are thinking of you all at this very sad time. May your memories of Bobby help you all through the days ahead. May Bobby rest in peace,”, reports The Mirror.
A parent of one of Bobby’s fellow pupils also shared a tribute online, saying: “Our deepest condolences on the loss of your beautiful son Bobby. Always so full of joy and smiles coming out through the school gates each day. May he rest in peace”, reports The Mirror.
“Deepest sympathy to the Dunne and Tyrrell families on the untimely passing of Bobby,” the school said.
“Also sincere condolences to all the staff and pupils in Boher N S., on the loss of their friend. We are thinking of you all at this very sad time. May your memories of Bobby help you all through the days ahead. May Bobby rest in peace,”, reports The Mirror.
A parent of a fellow pupil at Boher NS also paid tribute in a message shared online, which read: “Our deepest condolences on the loss of your beautiful son Bobby. Always so full of excitement and smiles coming out the school gates each day. May he rest in peace”, reports The Mirror.
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