The 25-year-old, who had recently completed his training to become a pilot, has been remembered as ‘a fantastic guy with a bright future ahead’
19:51, 24 Sep 2025Updated 22:26, 24 Sep 2025
Evan Hill(Image: Atlantic Flight Training Academy / Facebook)
Tributes have been paid following the sudden death of a young pilot from Co Dublin who ‘left a lasting impression on everyone he met’.
Evan Hill, 25, from Donnybrook, tragically passed away on Friday after suffering a subarachnoid hemorrhage in his sleep.
Evan, whose father, Professor Arnold Hill, is the Chairman of Breast Cancer Ireland and Chair of Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, had only recently completed his training to be a pilot at Atlantic Flight Training Academy.
The Irish flight training organisation paid an emotional tribute to the former Belvedere College student, who successfully completed his first solo flight at Waterford Airport in April.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the sudden and tragic passing of one of our AFTA cadets, Evan Hill,” they said in a message shared on social media.
“Evan began his training with us in August 2024 and quickly left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Evan remains a highly regarded member of our AFTA family.
Evan Hill
“His dedication, positivity and passion for aviation were evident from the very beginning. He was a natural aviator, and one of the standout moments of his time with us was when he achieved his first solo flight and earned his wings, an accomplishment that reflected both his talent and determination.
“Evan will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was not only a committed, diligent cadet pilot, but he was also a cherished friend and colleague. Evan will be greatly missed by the entire AFTA community.
“Our thoughts are with Evan’s family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. AFTA’s Academy will be closed as a mark of respect this Friday for Evan’s funeral.”
Evan was a talented athlete who played rugby for Old Belvedere RFC, while his family was also heavily involved with Kilmacud Crokes GAA club.
The Stillorgan-based GAA club said they are ‘devastated’ following the young man’s sudden death as they paid tribute to the talented sportsman.
“Some heartbreaking devastating sad news. It is with deep sadness we need to let members know of the sudden death of Evan Hill,” the club said.
“Evan is son to club member Professor Arnie Hill, who members will know has been a major partner with us and BCI in our M2M events over the years.
“In fact, Arnie completed the full cycle last time round. Arnie has since also become a regular weekend KCWheelers cyclist, leading some of the Sunday spins.
“Evan was training to be a pilot with AFTA in Cork. Tragically, he died in his sleep of a subarachnoid hemorrhage last Friday. He was just 25 years old.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathies to his devastated parents, Arnie and Gemma, his brother David and his fellow triplets, Gerard and Peter and all their extended family and friends.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this difficult time.”
Evan’s sudden death has left his friends and family heartbroken, with tributes pouring in online for the popular young man.
“We were absolutely heartbroken to hear of the cruel, premature passing of your beautiful son and brother. There are no words,” one mourner said.
“Life is terribly unfair. Evan sounds like he was a fantastic guy with a bright future ahead. To have that taken away is beyond devastating. We are so so sorry and we are thinking of you all in the weeks and months ahead as you navigate this awful time.”
While a close pal added: “Dear Arnie and Gemma, deepest sympathy on the passing of your wonderful son Evan. You are all in our constant thoughts and prayers.”
Evan will lie in his repose at his home from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday evening.
Removal on Friday morning to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Donnybrook, arriving for 11am Requiem Mass, followed by burial at 3.30pm in Rathgormack, Co. Waterford.
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