'Brave as a lion'- Heartbroken tributes paid after death of young Irish sports fanatic

Tributes have poured in from across the country following the death of 12-year-old boy Tom Lynch from County Meath.

Tom was born with a rare condition called Hypotonia and Global Development Delay, and according to a tribute by his local GAA club, "it never dented his spirit and he learned not only to live but to thrive, despite the hand life had dealt him."

"Football was central to Tom's life, and he was central to a lot of good we did here at the club. Every victory the club enjoyed Tom was there and there are countless photos of Tom grasping onto Cups and Sheilds that were won over the years," the message said.

Tom's parents paid tribute to their beloved son on RIP.ie, with a message which said, "with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved son Tom, who left us too soon on the 14th of April 2025."

"Tom brought joy, laughter and the light of our lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew him," the tribute said.
Tom will be forever loved and deeply missed by heartbroken parents Derek and Nikki, and especially by his brother and sister Charlie and Lucy who loved Tom dearly, Tom’s loving grandparents John and Breda Farrelly, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, neighbours, friends and his many school friends at kilskyre National School in Kells in Meath.

"Tom was a bright, kind and fun loving boy whose smile lit up every room. A proud supporter of Manchester City, Meath GAA, Rugby, his local teams Ballinlough GFC and Kilskyre Hurling club," according to RIP.ie.

Tom was a proud student of Kilskyre National School, where he will be sorely missed by his school mates, teachers and the whole community.

Heartfelt messages have been left on RIP.ie, from those who knew and fondly remembered the young boy, with one mourner writing,

"Very saddened to hear of Toms passing. He was only 12 but was as brave as a lion and a pillar in his community and beyond. Our condolences to Derek, Nikki and family who gave him the world and brought Tom into our hearts."

In a Facebook tribute post, 'Keiths Meats' wrote, "Tom’s courage, bravery and fight is a reminder to us all that life is for living and by God this little man filled so much into his 12 years. Not all superheroes wear masks, this superhero sat in a wheelchair and wore various G.A.A. jerseys, my heartfelt condolences to all of Toms family and friends".

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Another message said, "Sincere sympathy to Dereck, Nikki, Charlie, Lucy and the extended family on the passing of dear Tom. What an amazing little man Tom was who brought so much light into so many people’s lives. Thinking about this difficult time in their lives. May Tom rest in eternal peace with the angels."

"Very sorry to hear of your gorgeous lads passing. Read about him on Facebook. I don't know you at all but sounds like you gave him a wonderful life and was much loved. I will light a candle for Tom and all of you. RIP," another person said.

Funeral Arrangements:

Reposing at his home (A82FD30) on Thursday 17th from 2pm to 5pm family break and then 6pm to 9pm.

Funeral Liturgy on Saturday 19th of April at 12noon in St Alphonsus Liguori Church, Kilskyre with burial afterwards in adjoining cemetery.

Family flowers only and donations, if desired, can be made to Little Blue Heroes