Tributes pour in for young Cork 'gentleman' who would 'light up any room'

Heartbroken friends paying tribute said they had 'nothing but good memories' of Josh

Heartbreaking tributes have been paid to a young Cork man after his untimely death earlier this week. Josh Lee O'Connell from Mahon sadly passed away on Wednesday, his death notice reads. He has been remembered as a kind, popular young man who would "light up any room he entered."

Paying tribute, Ringmahon Rangers AFC shared that it has postponed match fixtures as a mark of respect following the devastating death of one of their committee member's son. The local soccer club said its community is 'rallying around' the family.

"It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Josh Lee O’Connell, beloved son of Dave and Katherina, and brother of Jacob and Dylan. Dave is a valued committee member and our Under-13 coach, and at this difficult time, the entire club wishes to extend our heartfelt condolences to Dave, Katherina, Jacob, Dylan, and the extended O’Connell and Lee family. "As a mark of respect, all Ringmahon Rangers local fixtures scheduled for this week/weekend will not take place. The National games - Senior Intermediate Cup game in Dublin and the U12's National Trophy Semi-Final will go ahead. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the O’Connell and Lee family, and we offer our unwavering support to Dave, Katherina, and Jacob in the days and weeks ahead. As a club, we will rally around them during this incredibly difficult time. We believe this is the right decision as a football community for the weekend ahead. Ar dheis Dé go raibh anan."

St Michael's GAA also paid tribute in a statement, saying: "St Michael's GFC want to offer our deepest condolences to the family of Josh Lee O’Connell, following his sad passing. Josh was brother to U13 player Jacob, and beloved son of Dave and Katherina, and brother of Dylan. May Josh rest in peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Josh's funeral will take place this weekend in his native Mahon. The funeral details have been announced: He will repose at the Temple Hill Funeral Home, Boreenmanna Road, on Friday (April 17th) from 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm, with a Requiem Mass at 2.00 pm on Saturday (April 18th) in the Church of the Holy Cross, Mahon. Funeral afterwards to The Island Crematorium, Rocky Island, Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork. His family have asked for donations, if desired, to Jigsaw.

In an outpouring of support for Josh's family and friends, many have paid tribute to the well-liked young Mahon man. One friend described him as a "once in a lifetime friend with a smile that would light up any room he entered.

"I feel forever grateful to have had the opportunity to call Josh my friend and I feel lucky that I have countless memories of him filled with happiness, laughter and love. Josh had one of the kindest hearts and purest souls, and he will forever be missed," they added.

Another described Josh as "an absolute gentleman." She wrote: "My daughter has been Joshs friend for a good few years. I can not tell you how heartbroken she is at his untimely passing. I am devastated for his family and huge circle of friends for the loss they will bear for a long time. May Heaven be his home."

Another added: "To Josh’s family & friends, I couldn’t help but let you know there have been many tears from our daughter and some truly wonderful, beautiful stories of Josh’s generosity both in friendship and even buying little treats at the shop to cheer people up. Josh seemed like a young man to be proud of. I am so sorry for your loss. May Josh rest in the arms of the angels and send peace and love to his loved ones."

A fourth friend shared their heartbreak: "You were truly one of a kind so kind, so funny, and someone who could light up anyone’s day without even trying. You brought so much happiness to the people around you, and you’ll never be forgotten. Gone far too soon.

"My deepest condolences to Josh’s family. I am beyond grateful to be able to call Josh one of my friends nothing but good memories I am so very lucky to have met someone like him. he will be missed so very much rest in peace," they said.

Another mourner echoed how loved the young man was, saying: "My deepest sympathies to the Lee O Connell families. I remember Josh as a student in GSTN, a lovely, well-mannered boy. I also met him a few times in the past year working in JD Sports. Josh made quite the impression on me, he was so chatty, smiley and just a genuine lovely fella. My heart breaks for you all, sending you all strength. Rest in peace Josh."

May he RIP.

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