11-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘His talent touched hearts' – Heartbreaking tributes paid to young musician, 14, who died following short illness
The Leitrim teen had appeared in the All Ireland Fleadh in 2023 and 2024
'PROFOUND LOSS' 'His talent touched hearts' – Heartbreaking tributes paid to young musician, 14, who died following short illness
HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a talented young musician who was remembered as a "star" with an exceptional talent.
Paddy Rooney, 14, passed away on Thursday died following a 'short illness'.
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Paddy Rooney passed away following a short illness.
Credit:
The talented teen, from Leitrim, had appeared in the All Ireland Fleadh in 2023 and 2024, aired on TG4.
Paddy was crowned the winner of All Irelands at Fleadh Ceoil na h-Eireann in 2024 along with his brother Joe and his Ceili Band.
The drummer and banjo player was remembered as an ' exceptionally talented young man' who had a true 'gift for music'.
Lennon-Mc Loughlin School of Irish Dance said they were 'deeply saddened' to hear of the passing of Paddy.
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They said: 'Paddy was an exceptionally talented young man who will be greatly missed by all.'
Leitrim CCÉ remembered Paddy as a 'talented young musician and a lovely young man' who left the world 'too soon'.
They said: '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.'
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Comhaltas An Droma Mhóir- Dromore Comhaltas shared: 'We are heartbroken to share the passing of our special friend and talented young musician, Paddy Rooney.
'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.'
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'A STAR'
The group extended their sympathy to his family and the entire musical community who now mourn this 'profound loss'.
They added: 'May his music and memory continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him. And may he rest in eternal peace.'
Comhaltas Phil Rooney Branch said he was a 'wee character' and a born 'star'.
They said: 'We are all devastated by the news of Paddy's passing.
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"Coming during Fleadh week, a time he loved so dearly, playing and competing with distinction as a multi All-Ireland winner.
'For those fortunate enough to know him, he was a star that shone brightly, a wee character with a glint of devilment in his eye, a gifted musician, and a friend to many.
'His warmth, humour, and talent touched countless lives, and he will be forever missed.'
Glencar Manorhamilton GAA Club said a cloud of "devastation, grief and loss" has hit the community and "shook Manorhamilton to its core".
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They said: "Everybody loved Paddy, his warmth of character, his effervescent personality, his array of talents in education, music and sport, his leadership qualities and his sense of responsibility meant he had so much more to give - what a shock to lose someone of his calibre, a devastating blow to his family and community."
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Paddy was also a talented Irish dancer
Credit: Lennon-Mc Loughlin School of Irish Dance
