RIP: 'Forever five' - heartbreak across Galway as 'precious' little girl dies
‘Your kindness, compassion, dedication and love will never be forgotten. Forever five-years-old years old,’ her family said as she was laid to rest
There has been a wave of heartbreak across Galway and beyond following the death of a precious five-year-old girl.
Croía Leonard, of Knockdoe, Claregalway, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, 4th November 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her devoted family.
Croía’s family, including her heartbroken parents, Gearóid and Lourena, have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who cared for their precious little girl throughout her short but beautiful life.
“Your kindness, compassion, dedication and love will never be forgotten. Forever five-years-old years old,” her family said as she was laid to rest on Friday.
Family flowers have been requested only, please. Donations, if desired, can be made out to the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation.
Messages of condolences have poured in on RIP.ie following the tragic news.
One person said: “Gearoid, Lourena, Layla, Casey and extended Leonard and Quinn families. We are so sorry to hear of beautiful Croia's untimely passing and your unimaginable loss.
“Croia's light touched everyone who knew her and that light does not go out. May you find peace and comfort in your lovely memories of Croia”.
Another person said: “We are truly and deeply heartbroken to hear of the passing of your gorgeous daughter Croía. It is an immeasurable loss. We are so sorry that you are going through this heartache and pain.
“Although our daughter was only her classmate for a short time, we are so glad that they had that time together and will always remember Croía and her gorgeous smile.
“May her beautiful soul live on and guide you all in the difficult days ahead. We are so sorry. From another Rare Family. Prayers and strength sent to you all. She will get the best bed in heaven”.
Another mourner said: “There are simply no words for such a heartbreaking loss. Thinking of you all and at this unimaginably difficult time.
“Your beautiful little girl will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew her. Wishing ye strength and comfort in the days ahead”.
Her RIP.ie notice reads: “Cherished beyond words and forever loved, Croía will be deeply missed by her heartbroken Mammy and Daddy, Lourena and Gearóid; her adored little sister and brother, Layla and Casey; her loving grandparents, Gerard and Catherine Leonard (Knockdoe) and Barry Quinn (Carnmore); her great-grandparents, Malachy and Maureen Quinn (Ardrahan); her uncles Michael, Aiden, Eddie and Shane; her aunt Lisa; and her extended family, relatives and all those whose lives she touched.
“Croía is predeceased by her beloved grandmother, Bridgie Quinn (Carnmore). Croía will also be dearly missed by her wonderful care team, especially her devoted Jack and Jill nurses, Hannah, Bríd and Tara, who cared for her with such tenderness, kindness and love.”