RIP: Leitrim community pays tribute to ‘a beautiful soul gone too soon’

Tributes have been pouring in from Leitrim and beyond for a young man described as “a beautiful soul gone too soon.”

Fiacc Russell, from Rossan, Aughavas and Ballinamuck, Longford, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 12. He is predeceased by his grandmother, Terry Russell. 

He is deeply regretted and sadly missed by his heartbroken parents, Eamon and Ciar; his loving brothers, Donnacha and Tadhg; his grandparents, Lorcan and Adair Maher and Eamonn Russell; his aunts, Kyle, Cliona and Aisling; along with cousins, extended family, and a wide circle of friends.

Tributes have been widely shared on RIP.ie in his memory. One condolence read: “Fiacc was a genuine, kind, good humoured young man who lived life with a smile on his face,” while another said, “He was a gentleman, always polite, diligent and friendly. I enjoyed meeting him in Dunnes. He was always smiling.”A former teacher also wrote, “He was a pleasure to have in class. Fiacc was a kind caring young man with an infectious smile and was always helping other pupils,”

Fiacc was a student at ATU Galway, where the Student Union described him as a “valued member” of the university community: “Fiacc was a valued member of our student community and his loss is being deeply felt by classmates, friends and staff,” they said.

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A staff member added: “I had the pleasure of teaching him at ATU Galway, and he was a true gentleman. He will be remembered with great warmth and kindness,”

His funeral service took place on Thursday, April 16 at St Patrick’s Church in Ballinamuck.

Friends have also shared heartfelt tributes. One said: “A great kid, was a pleasure to have spent time with you and also get to call you a friend.”

Another wrote: “One of my best mates. Condolences to the whole Russell family May God give ye strength. Fiacc I will surely miss you a lot bro. May you get the best bed up in heaven. Will forever be one of my best mates,”

“He was a truly great friend, someone who always looked out for others. We always will cherish the many wonderful memories shared with him, both at home and in Galway,” another tribute read.

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