RIP: 'Special boy' (15) dies after tragic cancer battle as hundreds pay tribute

Hundreds are left heartbroken following the tragic and untimely death of young Ryan Kearney, aged just 15-years-old, Carlow Live reports.

Ryan passed away peacefully after a short illness on Monday, 7 July in the care of St. John's Ward at Crumlin Children's Hospital.

His RIP.ie notice reads: "Ryan was cherished every moment by his heartbroken parents David and Sinead, and his brother Adam and sister Laura. He will be missed greatly by his grandfathers Dick Kearney and Declan Cuddy, by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, his friends, and his girlfriend Maeve."

Ryan's death has rocked his local community and hundreds have taken to share tributes to him online, including friends, family, teachers both past and present, and sports clubs which Ryan was devoted to as a young sportsman.

Ryan played for his local football club, Vale Wanderers Football Club, who led the tributes on social media for the much-loved young man following his passing. 

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In a heartfelt post, the club wrote: "It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Ryan Kearney, a much-loved young player with Vale Wanderers. Ryan was a funny, charismatic, and kind-hearted young man who lit up every pitch he played on. He was a fantastic team player, a loyal friend, and someone who brought great spirit and warmth to our club.

"Ryan will be sadly missed by everyone at Vale Wanderers, and his absence leaves a space that can never be filled. His courage and positivity touched so many lives, and his memory will always be a part of our club.

"We are thinking especially of his parents, David and Sinead, his sister Laura, and his brother Adam at this heart-breaking time. The Kearney family’s strength and generosity, raising significant funds for Children’s Cancer in Ryan’s name, was a remarkable testament to the love and resilience within the Kearney family — a day and an effort that will never be forgotten."

Others have joined in sharing kind words and memories of Ryan as well as their sincerest sympathies with his family. Of the hundreds of messages left online, one person wrote: "His kindness, laughter, beautiful spirit touched all our lives, and we will forever carry his memory in our hearts."

Another person shared: "Ryan was a truly special boy – full of warmth, kindness and fun. He had a smile that could brighten any room and left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to know him."

Someone else said: "Ryan's cheeky grin - and witty comments to back it up - will be forever missed. A lovely kid who was becoming a fine young man, it was an absolute pleasure to have known you Ryan."

Funeral Arrangements:

Ryan will be reposing at his home in Ballinaboley on Wednesday from 4pm and concluding with prayers at 8pm. A Celebration of Ryan's Life will take place in St. Lazerian's Church in Leighlinbridge on Thursday morning, 10 July at 11am. Cremation will take place afterwards in Mount Jerome Crematorium in Dublin at 3pm.