The Harps have paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Rory Deegan who tragically passed away in Greece earlier this week.
22 Rory, who is from Cullahill, had recently travelled to Greece with a group of friends where he had been working for the summer.
He was found unresponsive in a swimming pool by friends on Sunday.
He is a past pupil of Colaiste Mhuire Johnstown and was studying in Technological University of the Shannon (formerly LIT).
Rory is a member of the well-known Deegan family who run Deegan’s Centra in Urlingford.
The family are also prominent members of The Harps GAA club and Rory played in the Junior C final win over Park-Ratheniska-Timahoe last year, scoring a goal.
His club, The Harps, have paid tribute to Rory on social media.
They said: “The Harps GAA Club are saddened with grief and sorrow as we mourn the loss of our cherished club member and friend, Rory Deegan.
“We express heartfelt condolences to his parents Joe & Diane, his brothers Conor, Barry Ross and Jack, his sister Rachel along with grandparents, Donal & Margaret and the extended Deegan & Cullen families. Our sympathies are beyond words.
“Rory was a shining light, with an infectious smile and character. He lit up the lives of all who knew him. He loved life and loved making others happy, he always had a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone he encountered.
“Rory was a people’s person, his bubbly personality brought happiness and joy to everyone who walked in his path.
“Born into a strong and dedicated hurling family, his inherent commitment and love for the game and his club was incessant.
“In his short life, he had many under-age hurling successes and in his return to play last year, his contribution was instrumental in our Junior County Final win in O’Moore Park.
“Rory hurled with sheer heart and pride. As a club and community, we are deeply saddened and broken-hearted by his passing. He will be greatly missed on the field, on the sidelines and the wider circles of life.
“We are thankful for all the fun and fond memories he created and the larger than life spirit he shared with us. ‘He will shine on in our hearts forever’.
“We offer our deepest condolences and unwavering support to all Rory’s family, his friends and clubmates during this overwhelming time of loss and despair. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
Meanwhile, Rory’s funeral details have also been announced.
He will repose at his family home in Cullohill this Sunday and Monday before being removed to St Tighearnach’s Church in Cullohill for 12 noon Requiem Mass on Tuesday.
He will be laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery afterwards.
May Rory Rest in Peace.
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