Ruairi will be laid to rest in Drumcliffe Cemetery, Ennis in Co. Clare on Tuesday

Ruairí Noel Frawley. (Image: RIP.ie)

A sense of “profound sadness” has engulfed communities in different parts of Ireland following the untimely death of popular teenager, Ruairí Noel Frawley.

Ruairí, a dedicated sports fan, passed away on Thursday June 4, 2026. He is survived by parents Melissa Milbrandt and John Frawley, siblings, Chealsea, Aaron, Cillian, Leon and Abigail.

A pupil at Good Counsel College in New Ross, Co. Wexford, the school principal described Ruairí as a “cherished and valued member of our school community”.

“On behalf of the Good Counsel College community, I wish to extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, and friends of Ruairí,” said Principal Mark O’Brien.

Principal O’Brien added: “Ruairí was a cherished and valued member of our school community, and his sudden passing has left a profound sadness across our entire school family.

“We are holding you all closely in our hearts, thoughts and prayers during these sad and difficult days. May Ruairí rest in eternal peace,” said Principal Mark O’Brien.”

Ruairí’s former club, Rathnure United Football Club, paid a touching tribute to him on social media.

“It is with profound sadness that we learned of the tragic and untimely passing of our underage player, Ruairi Frawley.

“At this difficult time, the club extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to Ruairi’s family and friends, his U16 teammates and coaches, his classmates, and all who knew and loved him.

“You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May Ruairi rest in peace.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

Ruairi’s death notice on RIP.ie reads: “Formerly Marian Avenue, Ennis, Co. Clare. Dearly loved son of Melissa Milbrandt and John Frawley, loving brother of Chealsea, Aaron, Cillian, Leon and Abigail. Sadly mised by his loving parents, brothers, sisters, aunts especially Ellen, uncles, cousins, relatives and friends.”

Sport was an enormous part of Ruairi’s life, so much so, his parts have made a special request to anyone planning on attending the youngster’s Funeral Mass on Sunday.

“Reposing in Browne’s Funeral Home Enniscorthy (Y21H3K5) on Sunday (7th June) from 4 o’clock until 7 o’clock.

“Reposing in Kennedy’s Funeral Home, Ennis Co.Clare (V95HE36) on Monday (8th June) from 5 o’clock until 7 o’clock with removal on Tuesday morning to St. Joseph’s Church, Ennis for Funeral Mass at 10.30.

“Burial afterwards in Drumcliffe Cemetery, Ennis.

Ruairí was a huge sports fan. His family would like for those attending the funeral to wear sports jerseys, if possible.”

As the terrible news of Ruairi’s untimely passing began to spread, family members, friends and some total strangers have paid tribute to Ruairi on social media.

“Ruairí, you won the sack race last week at our sports day. Your smile will never be forgotten. Rest in paradise. Thinking of all your classmates and family at this sad time,” said one devastated classmate.

“Wishing comfort, peace, and strength to the family who lost the young boy and hope you get through these tough times rest in peace,” said another.

A third person said: “Sleep easy Ruairí, may your Family and Friend’s hold the beautiful memories you shared with them forever in their hearts. Heartbroken for all your GCC classmates. Look after each other.”

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