Mayo community grieving death of 16-year-old GAA star
The death of 16-year-old Christopher Gavin, Ashwood Glade, Westport, has evoked an immense sense of sadness and loss across west Mayo.
A student of Rice College, he died suddenly yesterday at Mayo University Hospital.
Christopher will be greatly missed by his heartbroken parents Michael and Karen (née Donoghue, late of Killala), his twin brother Michael, sisters Cathy and Emma, his nephew and godchild Thomas, grandparents Monica Donoghue, Chris and Ethel Gavin (Peter Street), aunts Maura Gavin, Fiona Donoghue, Gail Gallagher and Anita Dooley, uncle Paul Donoghue, cousins, relatives, neighbours, friends, classmates and staff in Rice College and his Westport GAA family.
Heartfelt sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.
Christopher was predeceased by his grandfather Sean Donoghue.
A tribute by Rice College stated: "A light went out in Rice College as we lost a wonderful transition year student.
"Christopher (Chris) Gavin passed away at the youthful age of 16 years old. The school community of Rice College are struggling after hearing of his passing at Mayo University Hospital.
"We extend our sympathies to Chris’s parents Michael and Karen, his twin brother Michael, his sisters Cathy and Emma.
"May his gentle soul rest in peace."
A tribute by Westport GAA Club said: "Our town of Westport, its schools and our GAA community woke (yesterday) to the heartbreaking news that Christopher Gavin, one of our current GAA minor players, a dedicated teammate and a true friend to so many had passed away while in Mayo University Hospital.
"Chris’s twin brother Michael is also a member of our minor squad, with both players committed to their teams and teammates over their many years at our club.
"All of our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with the Gavin family at this tragic time.
"As the twins’ coaches, we are utterly lost for words to express how sad our whole GAA community is feeling right now for this immense loss.
"We extend to Chris’ parents Karen and Mike, his sisters Cathy and Emma and his inseparable twin brother Michael, our heartfelt condolences as you and our community try to come to terms with this sudden and tragic news.
"Chris lined out with his team against Achill last week, where he played with the number 15 jersey. Chris’ team came away with a win that day, and it is nice to know that his last game representing his club was a happy memory for him.
"As a mark of respect to Chris and his family, that winning number 15 jersey of Chris’ will be retired for the rest of our season, ensuring Chris will be remembered as part of our squad at every game by his team and club.
"We have had opportunities in the past to discuss with Chris’ teammates about getting over the loss of a game, how we support each other, and how we pick each other up and go again.
"Chris’ teammates and our GAA community now take up that same challenge by supporting the Gavin family during these very sad days.
"The devastating loss of such a great son, brother, friend and teammate will need us all to surround Chris' family with our support and love in the weeks and months ahead."
The tribute was signed by Westport GAA, Chris’ coaches and all his teammates.
His remains will be reposing at McGing's Funeral Home on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m.
Requiem Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday in St. Mary’s Church, Westport, with burial afterwards in Aughavale Cemetery.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.