Poyntzpass community mourns the loss of 'proud young footballer' Pádraig Rafferty following long battle with illness
The Poyntzpass community are in mourning today, following the passing of schoolboy and underage GAA player Pádraig Rafferty.
Pádraig, a pupil of St Joseph and St James’ Primary School, sadly lost his battle to a devastating brain tumour which he was diagnosed with in 2023. Over the last few years, the community rallied around Pádraig and his family, as he fought a brave fight.
Loved and cherished son of John and Lorraine, much loved brother of Grace and Niamh, devoted grandson of Owen and Philomena Fegan and Pat and Marie Rafferty, Pádraig’s funeral notice said that died peacefully ‘in the arms of his parents, sisters and family’ at Daisy Hill Hospital, Newry.
Pádraig was a keen Gaelic footballer with Redmond O’Hanlon’s GAC, and the club described the news as ‘unimaginably difficult’.
“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of our underage player, Pádraig Rafferty, this morning,” the club said in a statement published on social media.
“The loss of Pádraig is a tragedy beyond words, and our entire community is mourning the loss of one of our own.
“Pádraig was a proud young footballer who wore the Redmond O’Hanlon’s jersey with great spirit, and we will always remember the dedication and joy he brought to the pitch.
“As a mark of respect to Pádraig, all club activities—including all training sessions, matches, and meetings across all age groups—are suspended until further notice.
“During this unimaginably difficult time, we wrap our arms around his father John, his mother Lorraine, and his sisters Grace and Niamh, along with their extended family and friends. We stand beside you in your grief.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam óg.”
The news has been met with an outpour of grief for the family, with GAA clubs across south Armagh and the wider community paying their respects.
Thomas Davis GAA are amongst those clubs, and they said that Pádraig’s ‘spirt and dedication to the jersey will never be forgotten’.
“With deepest sorrow, Thomas Davis Newry GAC extends our heartfelt condolences to Redmond O'Hanlons GAC Poyntzpass, and to Pádraig’s father John, mother Lorraine, sisters Grace and Niamh, and all of Pádraig’s family and friends.
“We mourn with you the loss of a bright young footballer whose spirit and dedication to the jersey will never be forgotten.
“Please know our club stands with you in this terrible time and we offer any support you may need.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam óg.”
Sinn Fein Councillor Oonagh Magennis also offered her condolences to the family.
“No words. Rest easy wee angel,” she wrote in a post online.
“Sincere condolences to John, Lorraine, Grace and Niamh, and to Pádraig's grandparents Paddy and Marie Rafferty and the wider family.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam óg.”
The family home is strictly private today (Monday). Family and close friends will be welcome on Tuesday from 12.00pm until 9.00pm.
Pádraig’s remains will leave his late home, 9 Tullynacross Road, Poyntzpass on Wednesday at 11.30am for 12.00pm Requiem Mass in St Joseph’s Church, Poyntzpass, with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Family Flowers only. Donations in lieu of flowers, if desired to the Armagh Lourdes Funds, c/o Peter McGinn Funeral Directors, 41 Leitrim Road, Hilltown, BT34 5XS.
Pádraig’s family request for everyone to wear bright colours on the day of the funeral.