The primary school student’s heartbroke family have said his will “forever loved and never forgotten”
Bobby Dunne
The heartbroken family of an 11-year-old boy from Co Offaly who passed away at the weekend have said he “brought joy and laughter to everyone who knew him”.
Bobby Dunne, from Grogan in Ballycumber, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday at Portiuncula University Hospital.
The primary school pupil’s family announced the devastating news in a notice shared on RIP.ie.
“It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we announce the passing of our beloved Bobby who died on May 2nd 2026, unexpectedly with his family at Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe at the tender age of 11 years,” they said.
“He was predeceased by his cherished grandad Liam, who will welcome him with open arms.
“Bobby was the adored and dearly loved son of Annalene and Brian and much loved little brother of Jack, treasured grandson of Mick and Jackie Tyrrell and Gemma Dunne.
“Deeply loved nephew of Ross (Jill), Kenneth (Laura), Sandra (Patrick Rip.) and Billy. He will be sadly missed and forever loved by his cousins Fianna, Liam, Caitlin, Christian, Megan, Cillian, Lennie, and Rowen, extended family, neighbours and school friends in Boher NS.”
Bobby’s heartbroken family paid tribute to the tragic youngster, adding: “Bobby was a little character full of personality and charm, who brought joy and laughter to everyone who knew him.
“May He Rest in Peace. Forever loved and never forgotten.”
The Dunne family are heavily involved in the local GAA clubs in Ballycumber, with Brosna Gaels Camogie Club announcing that training has been canceled on Monday evening as a mark of respect to Bobby.
“May the beautiful Bobby rest in peace,” the club said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his mam dad and big brother and the extended Dunne and Tyrell families.”
Bobby attended Boher National School, with staff and and the board of management offering their condolences to the Dunne family and the youngster’s classmates at this difficult time.
“Deepest sympathy to the Dunne and Tyrrell families on the untimely passing of Bobby,” the school said.
“Also sincere condolences to all the staff and pupils in Boher N S., on the loss of their friend. We are thinking of you all at this very sad time. May your memories of Bobby help you all through the days ahead. May Bobby rest in peace.”
A parent of a fellow pupil at Boher NS paid tribute to Bobby in a message shared online which read: “Our deepest condolences on the loss of your beautiful son Bobby. Always so full of excitement and smiles coming out the school gates each day. May he rest in peace”
While another morner added: “Annalynn Brian jack Jackie Mick and grannie Dunne and all extended family we are absolutely heart broken on hearing off the passing off your beautiful Bobby. Such a friendly talented boy it’s so hard to comprehend he’s gone.
“May God give you the strength and walk with you in this difficult time. Rip Bobby will miss you in your grannies shop.”
The Dunne family have said that Bobby’s funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
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