Aaron Devlin: Family, friends and GAA community pay tribute to ‘son, brother and friend’
Tributes have been paid to Aaron Devlin, who sadly passed away yesterday after losing his battle with meningitis.
The Derry footballer was brought to hospital on Friday evening and put on life support. He had complained of feeling unwell after playing a challenge match for his club Ballinderry Shamrocks earlier in the week.
Ballinderry confirmed yesterday afternoon that the 23-year-old had died.
We are sad to inform that Aaron Devlin has sadly passed away, please continue to pray and support Aarons family at this sad time. #RIP #HERO
— Ballinderry Shamrocks ☘️ (@BallinderryGAC) July 30, 2015
GAA President Aogán Ó Fearghail offered sympathy to his family and friends on behalf of the Association.
He said: “The tragic news of Aaron’s passing has shocked people right across the wider GAA family. He carried himself with distinction both on and off the field and the messages of support since he fell ill were indicative of the upstanding character that he was.
“A highly respected player, he was fit and in the prime of his life and so the loss is even more acute. On behalf of the Association as a whole, I would like to express my sympathies to the Devlin family and Aaron’s wide circle of friends and admirers.”
The news caused shock and sorrow around Ireland, with messages coming in from those involved in gaelic games and also from the wider sporting community.
Deepest sympathies to the family, friends and team mates of Aaron Devlin, RIP pic.twitter.com/2u9NzNLUnb
— GPA (@gaelicplayers) July 30, 2015
Sincere condolences to Aaron Devlin's family, friends & @BallinderryGAC teammates on his tragic passing. Look after each other. RIP.
— Aaron Kernan (@AaronKernan) July 30, 2015
Unimaginable. Thinking of Ronan, Collie, Carmel, Eugene, Anna & everyone at @BallinderryGAC Rest In peace young man pic.twitter.com/m4sWCPedM8
— Thomas Niblock (@thomasniblock) July 30, 2015
Condolences to the family of Aaron Devlin. Very sad to hear of his passing. Sport in context. Live every moment. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh sé.
— Paul Collins (@paulcollinstipp) July 30, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Aaron Devlin & all in the @officialgaa May he rest in peace.
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) July 31, 2015
Many fellow players remembered the young man they watched play and competed with and against; and paid tribute to a popular, big-hearted athlete.
Just heard the terrible news about Aaron Devlin. Tragic loss for his family and friends. Thoughts and prayers with you all. #RIP
— Kieran Donaghy (@starryboy14) July 30, 2015
My thoughts are with the family and friends of Aaron Devlin.. Very sad news!
— Paul Flynn (@Flinto23) July 30, 2015
The final whistle has blown for you @Aaron_Devlin but by God you had some game. Rest in Peace Aaron.
— Adrian McGuckin (@bigaidso14) July 30, 2015
Awful news about Aaron Devlin. Puts everything into perspective really. Thoughts and prayers his family and friends #RIP @BallinderryGAC
— Colm O Neill (@crossbar13) July 30, 2015
The Devlin statement released a touching and dignified statement on their loss.
They said: “Following a characteristically hard-fought battle with a sudden illness, our son, brother and friend Aaron has left us. This has been an unimaginably tough and dark time for us - and will continue to be.
“The actions, words, prayers, kindness, and support from so many people has genuinely touched us. We may never be able to thank everyone for it, but please know that it has helped us realise just what an impact he made on this world in just 23 years. We have gained so much strength and pride from it.
“We now hope that the many memories Aaron has given us will help us through the challenge that we must now face together.”
Since Féile 2006 I've watched you. We laughed, we cried but we always shared a smile. God bless your beautiful soul. pic.twitter.com/UTTzdnNkDc
— Mary K Burke (@MKBurke1) July 30, 2015
