The 20-year-old Tuam native died following a road accident involving two vehicles in Limerick.
The fatal collision occurred at around 2am on the N20 in the Bruree area of Limerick. The driver of the other vehicle. a male in his 20s, was conveyed to University Hospital Limerick for the treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Mr Kavanagh had been part of Enda Bolger’s yard in Limerick for the past two years, having also rode for trainer David Loughnane in the UK.
Paying tribute to Mr Kavanagh on social media, Mr Loughnane expressed his shock and sadness at the young jockey’s untimely passing.
“I’ve struggled to find the words to write this post,” he said. “Paul was one of the nicest lads I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing, with an infectious smile that would light up every room he walked into.
“The world would be a much happier place with more Paul Kavanaghs in it. Such a credit to his family.”
Mr Kavanagh’s death notice states that he was the beloved grandson of the late Teresa Kavanagh and Mark and Bernie Carr.
He will be forever loved and missed by his heartbroken parents Kevin and Alison, siblings Grace and Ryan, as well as his cherished grandad Martin and extended family, friends and racing colleagues.
“His eyes carried a light that no darkness could dim,” the noticed added.
Jockeys riding at Leopardstown, Limerick and Down Royal all wore black armbands on St Stephen’s Day in his memory.
Mr Kavanagh was also past pupil of St Jarlath’s College in Tuam and St Colman’s National School in Corofin and has been fondly remembered by many in both school communities.
In a statement on social media, St Jarlath’s College paid tribute to their past pupil saying, “Paul was a dear member of our school community and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.
“We have fond memories of Paul from his time in the college and were delighted to see him following his dream of being a jockey.
“We extend our sincerest condolences to his parents, Kevin and Alison, his brother Ryan and his sister Grace, his extended family, neighbours and wide circle of friends at this most difficult time.”
Once a keen hurling player with Sylane Hurling Club, he was remembered by his former team as a valued teammate and friend.
“All at Sylane Hurling Club were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Paul,” they stated.
“Paul played hurling with our club before going on to pursue his career as a full-time jockey, a journey he followed with the same dedication and determination he showed on the field.
“Paul was a valued teammate and friend, and he will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing, coaching and playing alongside him.”
Further condolences on rip.ie stated that he was a wonderful friend who was always kind and polite.
“Our sincerest sympathies to Paul’s family and friends and to Enda Bolger and team on the dreadfully sad loss of Paul,” another added.
“Such a gorgeous young guy, with a beautiful smile and a very promising career, taken far too soon.
“May you all find strength in the coming days [and] months ahead.”
Funeral details for Mr Kavanagh are yet to be announced.
Investigating gardaí are appealing for anyone who witnessed the fatal collision, or who had been travelling N20 in the Bruree area of Limerick between 1:40am and 2:15am on December 24, to contact them.
Gardaí can be contacted at the Newcastle West Garda Station on 069 20650, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.