Funeral for tragic schoolboy

A schoolboy who died suddenly on Friday was laid to rest today in County Armagh.
Patrick Quinn was laid to rest in Armagh today after his sudden death on FridayPatrick Quinn was laid to rest in Armagh today after his sudden death on Friday
Patrick Quinn was laid to rest in Armagh today after his sudden death on Friday

Patick Quinn was a 14-year-old pupil at St Paul’s High School in Bessbrook.

His funeral mass took place today at noon at St Malachy’s Church, Carrickcruppen.

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Parish Priest Sean Larkin said the popular schoolboy recieved a guard of honour from his local GAA club for a well attended funeral service.

“Patrick was a very fine young man”, he said.

“He was a keen sportsman and he often helped his father with his work. He was a fine young man in the community and in the parish.

“Patrick was 14-years-old and a pupil at St. Paul’s in Bessbrook. The family are heartbroken. It is the worst nightmare for any parent. It is a very tragic loss. He was into hurling and he also played Gaelic football. The street was lined with pupils from his old primary school, St Malachy’s Camlough, with the school choir and a guard of honour from his local football club. There was a tremendous turnout. It is just terrible for everyone.

“It is a terrible blow for the family.”

St Paul’s High School opened its doors at the weekend for friends of the popular teenager to gather in his memory. Staff were also made available to talk to students.

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Principal, Jarlaith Burns, said: “Patrick was a highly talented and extremely popular member of the school community. He loved his GAA sports and farming, and was just back from the ploughing championships last week.”

He added: “His family are well-known and hugely respected in this area and they will be supported by the school and the whole community in the coming weeks and months.”

The only son of Gerard and Mary Quinn, Patrick is survived by sisters Eilis, Kate, Mary and Rose.

In a statement, a PSNI spokeswoman said: “Police received a report of the sudden death of a young boy in the south Armagh area on Friday, September 23. The death is not being treated as suspicious.”

Lifeline is a crisis response 24-hour helpline service for people who are experiencing distress or despair. It can be contacted on 0808 808 8000

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