5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Tears flow following death of talented teenage musician as tributes pour in
Heartbreaking tributes have been paid following the death of award-winning young musician from Co Leitrim whose "talent touched hearts not only in his local community but across the traditional music world".
Paddy Rooney, from Lurganboy in Manorhamilton, passed away on Thursday (August 7) at the age of the 14 following a short illness.
Paddy was a gifted musician who competed in the All Ireland Fleadh in 2023 and 2024, where he played alongside his brother Joe, while Tg4 aired a special tribute to the teenager at the 2025 Fleadh festival in Co Wexford at the weekend.
A talented drummer and banjo player, Paddy has been remembered "not only for his remarkable musical gift, but for the ever-present smile he carried with him," in heartbreaking tributes shared online.
The teenager was a member of Dromore Comhaltas, who paid an emotional tribute to Paddy in a message posted on social media.
"We are heartbroken to share the passing of our special friend and talented young musician, Paddy Rooney," they wrote. The teenager passed away on Thursday following a short illness (Image: Leitrim CCÉ)
"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."
Leitrim CCÉ also paid tribute to Paddy in a message which read: "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. Paddy was a gifted drummer and banjo player
"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.
As well as being a gifted musician, Paddy was a talented Irish dancer who competed in the World Championship in Montreal in 2023.
Paddy was a member of the Faragher McLoughlin School, who have offered their condolences to the young man's family.
"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.
"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."
Paddy was well known in traditional Irish music circles for his talented on the banjo, with young man's death sent shockwaves through the community. Paddy was also a talented Irish dancer
Paying tribute to the teenager, one mourner said: "Deepest sympathies to the Rooney family. A heartbreaking loss to bear. Thinking of you all at this difficult time. May Paddy rest in peace."
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."
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.
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."
Paddy funeral mass was held in St. Clare's Church in Manorhamilton on Saturday, with the talented young man laid to rest at Diffreen Cemetery
The family have requested family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired to The Gavin Glynn Foundation.
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