'Kind, sharp-witted and endlessly curious': Tributes flood in for beloved Clare GP

Tributes have come flooding in after the untimely death of well-known and loved Clare GP Dr Nnaji (Fabian) Akamnonu. 

Born in Imo State, Nigeria, Dr Akamnonu resided in Shannon for many years with his family where he became a cherished member of the community. He was widely known for his sense of humour, infectious laugh and devout faith. 

The beloved man will be sadly missed by his wife Anne, children Chioma, John, Nkem, Brendan and Nnenna, their partners Caoimhín, Monica, Eimear and Sam, his two precious grandchildren Kalu and his namesake Nnaji and his extended family in Nigeria, Ireland and abroad, as well as many friends and colleagues.

Many friends and former patients took to RIP.ie to express their condolences. 

One person said, "Your death came as a rude shock to our community, you touched so many lives especially in your GP practice, my late mother was one. I was deeply saddened to hear of your passing to eternal glory. My heart goes out to your immediate and extended family. May the Almighty God comfort them. May our Heavenly Father receive your soul, rest in peace Doctor."

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Two pastors and friends of the Doctor also shared their sympathies, saying, "It is with great sadness and shock to hear the passing of Dr Fabian Nnaji Akamnonu. We first met in early 2001 when he moved to Shannon and became our new family GP. Doctor was such a loving and caring man who had a great passion for his profession. He took good care of my family and impacted many lives positively. He was like a brother to us and our children were very fond of him and had great respect for him.

"When we moved away from Shannon, we still kept contact. We did not know when we visited you will be the last time we will see each other. Doctor, you were such a loving husband to Anne, a great father to John, Chioma, Nkem, Brendan and Nnenna. Also an amazing granddad to your grand children. You will be greatly missed and will forever be in our hearts, you were such a joy to be around with.

"May the good lord comfort your wife Anne, children, grandchildren, extended family and friends at this difficult time. May he give them the grace to bear this irreplaceable loss and may your gentle soul rest peacefully with the Lord." 

A former colleague commented, "Dr Fabian was a truly unique presence in our GP community—kind, sharp-witted, and endlessly curious. He had admirably deep convictions and was never afraid to debate. His contributions at meetings were always unique and rooted in his authentic beliefs. I am saddened to hear of his passing. My deepest condolences to his loved ones navigating this sad time." 

Dr Akamnonu reposed at St Mary's Church, Ruan on Wednesday, June 11. His Funeral Mass took place today, Thursday, June 12 at 11am with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. 

May he rest in peace.