Tributes have been paid following the sad passing of a young Portadown GAA player over the weekend.
Frank-James McCaffery, who played for the Tír na nÓg, was the beloved son of Jean and Francis and dear brother of Haley and Rosa.
His club led tributes to a young man nicknamed ‘Frank the Tank’; a forward who was a key cog in a double championship winning side.
“The committee, members, players and coaches of Tír na nÓg are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Frank James McCaffrey,” read a club statement.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to Frank James’ mother Jean, father Francis, sisters Hayley and Rosa, cousins and players Joe, Tom and Sam and the entire family circle.
“Frank James, fondly referred to by his teammates as ‘Frank the Tank’ was a formidable forward and a key player on our U14 double championship winning and U16.5 championship winning teams.
“Frank always had a smile and a twinkle in his eye and provided the craic on many an away day with his team. A laid back lad with a kind soul, who did his talking on the pitch.
“Frank James, we will remember you fondly. #ForeverYoung. Mary, Queen of the Gael, Pray for him.”
Hundreds of tributes have been flooding in overnight following the announcement of his passing.
One person wrote: “Such a special boy that I will love and miss forever. A heart of gold and smile to light up any room. Loved and thought of by this whole town. You were a true gentleman son would of done anything to help someone in need. I hope now your free of pain and the burden of this hard thing called life you were just too good for this world. Last night I wish I’d of hugged you that little bit harder and for that little bit longer 💔💔 thinking of all his family and friends, especially my brother he meant so much to him…Love you so much wee man, forever young you will stay.”
Frank James’ death has sent shockwaves around a community – another left heartbroken as Christmas fast approaches. Many more tributes attested to the youngster’s “heart of gold” and all round kind nature.
Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
Deeply regretted by his loving mother, father, sisters, granda Jim (McParland), aunts, uncles, cousins and family circle.
May he Rest in Peace.
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