Sadness at untimely passing of Tom Lynn

There is widespread shock and grief in the Mullingar and Shandonagh areas this evening at the news that Tom Lynn has passed away.

Aged 54, Tom was extremely well known in the community of Mullingar and in Shandonagh, where he had strong connections with the GAA club for many years. The Lynn family is synonymous with the club and Tom's son Kyle is a member of the current Shandonagh U13 side.

As well as being a noted Gaelic footballer for Shandonagh, Tom also played rugby with the Mullingar Rugby Club with whom he enjoyed many memorable days.

Tom, who was extremely well known in the farming community, is survived by his heartbroken family, including adored son Kyle; Martynas and Jurgita. His passing is deeply regretted by his brother Mick; sisters Mary, Deirdre and Siobhan, and many relations. His many friends in the town of Mullingar are mourning his untimely passing following such a brief illness.

Mullingar Rugby Club extended their sympathy to the late Mr Lynn's family in the following statement:

"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Tom Lynn, a valued member of the Mullingar Rugby Club community. Tom’s contributions to the club and the sport will remain an enduring legacy, a legacy that lives on through his son Kyle, who plays in our U14s.

"We extend our deepest condolences to Tom’s family, including Kyle, and to all his friends during this difficult time."

Shandonagh GAA Club chairman Tommy Brennan paid the following tribute:

"It's with heavy heart that we have to announce the passing of Tom Lynn who died peacefully in his home surrounded by family. Tom played football with Shandonagh in his favoured position as full back for countless years and was a rock in defence. You might have gotten past him once, but that would be the only time! I had the pleasure of playing football with him when I began playing adult football and I have to say he was a superb team mate. The banter on the pitch and in the dressing room was only surpassed by the craic after the game. Tom leaves his son Kyle behind him who is a fantastic talent and who also wears the number 3 jersey for Shandonagh. Even in Tom's last days he was able to reminisce and tell yarns about his playing days. Tom will be sadly missed and he will join his brother Poggy, another Shandonagh legend, as well as his other family members, in heaven. He will be sadly missed and forever remembered fondly in the club and community. God Rest your soul Tom."

Reposing at Gilsenan's Funeral Home, Mullingar on Friday, October 20, from 4pm to 6pm, with removal afterwards to the Cathedral of Christ The King. Funeral Mass on Saturday, October 21, followed by burial in Walshestown cemetery.