A Co Armagh community has been left reeling following the sudden death of a popular young Keady man.
Tiarnan Fullerton was a much-loved son and brother and a valued friend to all who knew him.
The 19-year-old died earlier today (Monday), leaving his family and friends devastated.
The sense of shock within Keady has led a local sporting club to open its doors tonight to allow people to come along and express their grief and disbelief, as well as offer comfort and support.
The pavilion at Gerard McGleenan Park on the Armagh Road – which is home to Michael Dwyers GFC and Ceide Lamh Dhearg hurlers – will be open from 7pm until 9pm.
According to the local GAA club, it is taking the decision to open so that “members of our community can be together to support each other at this time”.
And a spokesperson for Keady Michael Dwyers added: “The GAA family in Keady welcome anyone from the community, members and non-members, young and old, who need support, company or just a cup of tea and a chat.”
Nineteen-year-old Tiarnan’s family are long-standing and hugely respected members of the Keady community.
A son of Francis and Roisin and youngest brother of Ruairi, Caolan and Odhran, the popular young man’s passing has brought a huge outpouring of sympathy following news of their tragic loss.
Social media has been flooded with tributes to a “gentle soul”, “as nice a lad you could meet and “a hero to everyone”.
One described Tiarnan as “a beautiful young man who will be deeply missed”.
Another, reaching out to his family, assured: “You are in the hearts and prayers of everyone in Keady and indeed all GAA and boxing clubs near and far.
“No words can express our condolences to you all at this shocking and difficult time.”
And yet one more added: “Very sad news. May he RIP. God wrap your arms around him and his family and help them cope with this terrible tragedy.”
All club activity has been suspended at Gerard McGleenan Park following Tiarnan’s loss.
And the local Sean Doran Boxing Club – with which the family has very close associations – has also put on hold all activity “until further notice”.
The local Madden Raparees GAC has also added its own words of sympathy.
It said members had been “deeply saddened to learn of the untimely passing of Tiarnan Fullerton”.
And the club added: “We extend our deepest condolences to Tiarnan’s Mum, Dad and brothers, extended family and the whole Keady Community. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Funeral arrangements have not yet been finalised.
A death notice says Tiarnan, who died “unexpectedly”, is the “beloved and cherished son of Francis and Roisin and much loved youngest brother of Ruairi, Caolan and Odhran”.
His passing is “deeply regretted and sorely missed by his heartbroken parents, brothers, grandmothers Moyra and Monina, uncles, aunts, cousins and very many friends”.
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