Kilkenny mourning the loss of 'talented' and 'supportive' father

The death has occurred of Ray Shannon (Listerlin, Tullogher, Mullinavat, Kilkenny) and formerly of Arthurstown, New Ross, County Wexford.

Ray passed away peacefully in the Oak Ward, Waterford University Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

An update posted to a recent GoFundMe page set up to help support Ray's family shared the tragic update: "It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of Ray’s passing. Ray fought his illness with every ounce of strength he had, but despite his incredible resilience, he could not overcome it.

"Over the past week, as Ray’s family lovingly cared for him in his final moments, they have been deeply moved by the outpouring of support, love, and generosity shown through this fundraiser. The kindness from each and every one of you has been a source of immense comfort during this heartbreaking time.

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"Sophia and the family want to express their eternal gratitude to everyone who has contributed, shared messages of support, and stood by them throughout this journey. Your generosity has not only helped ease their burdens but has also been a powerful reminder of the incredible community surrounding them.

"Thank you for being part of Ray’s story and for showing his family that they are not alone in their grief."

Ray was well-known in the local community for his work with his graphic design company FabD.

This led him to becoming a prop maker and set designer with local theatrical companies such as New Ross Musical Society and he even helped produce props in Ardmore Studios for the iconic Vikings TV series. 

His company has made a huge positive mark in the area where he lived, as he designed high quality graphics and signage for many buildings across Kilkenny and the South-East.

He also left a mark through his volunteer work, and his genuine and heartwarming personality.

Amongst those paying tribute following the news of Ray's passing were Listerlin Parents Association, who stated: "Sophia, Alex, Heidi, Eli and all the Shannon and Flynn family we extend our deepest sympathies on the very sad passing of Ray RIP. We want to acknowledge all the wonderful work he did as chairman/parent of our parents association, so helpful and supportive of all the school children and staff. You're all in our prayers at this time."

New Ross Musical Society were also amongst those to post an emotional tribute: "On Saturday, we received the news that our set designer Ray passed away. As devastated as we are, our thoughts and prayers at this time go out to his wife Sophia, children Alex, Heidi and Eli, his parents Ray and Trish, his siblings Kerry Ann, Adam and Lindsay and to all his extended family and wide circle of friends.

"Ray’s talents went far beyond just set design and painting, he was instrumental in getting our Sam to walk through doors and making a body appear on a sofa during Ghost, and in making our Fruma Sarah rise to the roof of St Michael’s in Fiddler… his expertise and talents will be greatly missed.

"We are thankful for him introducing his son Alex to theatre who has become a regular backstage for our productions. May he Rest In Peace."

Ray also helped with the production of Channel 5 television drama series, The Inheritance, working as a prop trainee as the series was shot around Kilkenny City and Inistioge.

Ray will be sadly missed by his loving wife Sophia (Flynn), children Alex, Heidi and Eli, parents Ray and Patricia, sisters and brother Kerryann, Adam and Lindsay, mother-in-law Catherine and predeceased by his father-in-law Seanie, aunts, uncles, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family and a large circle of friends.

May His Gentle Soul Rest in Peace

Reposing at Cooney's Funeral Home, New Ross, (Y34 FK44) on Wednesday, March 26 from 2pm concluding at 8pm.

Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, March 27 at 12 noon in St David's Church, Listerlin, (X91 XW67) followed by burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

House Strictly Private Please

The fundraiser to help support Ray's family is still open to donations, and you can do so here, if you so wish.

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