Mayo community mourns passing of much loved young man

THE community in south Mayo and beyond is mourning the unexpected death of much loved Matthew Vahey, 11 Rushbrook, Claremorris, and Galway city.

Ahead of his funeral later today and tomorrow, warm tributes have been paid to Matthew and sympathy extended to his family on their great loss.

A lovely young man who touched many people's lives in such a positive way, he was a treasured friend whose memory will be cherished.

In online tributes on rip.ie, one former school friend recalled: “I had the pleasure of working with Matthew on the school production of Grease in 2019. He was talented, funny, genuine, up for the craic and decent to the core. I treasure these memories. We had great fun.

“I am so sorry for this immeasurable and cruel loss. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone who is mourning the loss of Matthew.”

Stated another tribute: “Matthew was a wonderful man, beloved by all, whose kind nature and infectious sense of humour made him a friend to everyone he met.”

Matthew will be deeply missed by his heartbroken parents John and Susan, brothers Jack, James, Simon and Adam, his loyal canine companion Freddie, aunts, uncles, cousins and a wide circle of many friends, to whom sympathy is extended on their great loss.

Reposing is at his home (F12 XK18) this evening (Wednesday) from 5 until 7 p.m., with removal from his residence on Thursday to arrive at St. Colman’s Church for funeral Mass at 12 noon, followed by a committal service at Shannon Crematorium at 3 p.m.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.