Tyler McConnell: Massive outpouring of grief for 'a man of warmth, kindness, and sincerity'

Tributes have poured online for the 37-year-old Doagh publican – McConnell’s Bar Doagh – who died on November 3.

A death notice in Funeral Times describes him as the ‘dearly loved partner of Kirsty, much loved father of Sophia, Reggie and Ronnie, loving son of John and Marbeth, loved brother of Megan and partner David’.

His funeral service will be held in St. John’s Parish Church, Doagh Road, Ballyclare on Tuesday 11th November at noon, followed by committal in Antrim & Newtownabbey Crematorium.

The notice adds: ‘Deep in our hearts, your memory is kept, we loved you too dearly to ever forget’.

A tribute from the Ballyclare District Historical Memorial Association says: ‘It is with the heaviest of hearts that we, the members of the Ballyclare District Historical Memorial Association, express our deepest sorrow at the passing of one of life’s true gentlemen — Tyler McConnell.

‘Tyler was a man of warmth, kindness, and sincerity. He had time for everyone, always ready with a smile, a helping hand, or a comforting word.

‘His gentle nature and genuine care for others touched every person who had the privilege of knowing him.

‘Tyler’s presence brought light into the lives of many, and his absence will leave an unfillable void in our hearts and in our community’.

Another tribute from The Carrick and District Pool League Committee said they wanted to ‘pass on deepest sympathies to the family and friends of a former CDPL player, Tyler Mcconnell who has sadly passed away’.

‘Tyler was highly talented pool player and an even better person. May he rest in peace,’ they added.

And Ballynure Old Boys FC added that ‘everyone involved with Ballynure OB are saddened to hear of the passing of Tyler McConnell’. W

‘Tyler was a friend to many at the club, he was also very generous with his continued support and sponsorship for us over the years.

‘Taken far too soon,’ they added.

And a friend also posted: ‘Absolutely heartbroken at the passing of Tyler Mcconnell. There's absolutely no rhyme or reason and just doesn't make sense.

‘So many good times together over the years and like a brother to me.

‘We were honoured to have him as part of our wedding party.

‘The nicest and kindest gentleman you'll ever meet and he'll be missed by so many’.

Meanwhile Ballyclare Protestant Boys posted: ‘On behalf of the officers and members of Ballyclare Protestant Boys we would like to offer our condolences to the McConnell family.

‘Tyler was well known as true gentleman, a much loved member of Doagh community and always friendly to everyone he crossed paths with.

‘At this time the McConnell Family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers.

‘Rest easy Tyler’

And Doagh Community Association said: ‘We were shocked and saddened today to hear of the passing last night of our dear friend Tyler McConnell.

‘Tyler and the McConnell family have supported our group over many years, always willing to help where they could and always so thoughtful and generous in every way.

‘Tyler really was one in a million, one of life's true gentlemen who was loved and respected by everyone who knew him.

‘Our village has lost a great man but he leaves us with so many wonderful memories to cherish forever.’