Kerry community pay tribute after sudden death of young GAA player

Tributes have poured in after the sudden death of a much-loved and talented GAA player from Kerry.

Lillie Gaynor was a second-year student at Mary Immaculate College in Limerick and had begun a teacher training placement in Tralee. She was also a talented athlete, playing both Gaelic football and camogie to a high level.

Lillie's club Abbeydorney LGFC paid tribute to her on social media, writing: "Everyone at Abbeydorney LGFC is shocked and heartbroken by the sudden, peaceful but unexpected passing of our intermediate player, Lillie Gaynor, overnight.

"Lillie was a much-loved and valued member of our club since joining at a young age and was an integral member of teams all the way through, and her parents always there as supporters. She was a proud member of the Junior winning squad in 2024.

"As a mark of respect, all club events are cancelled this weekend and for the foreseeable.

"We offer our deepest sympathies to Lillie's family, friends, coaches and teammates, both in our club and at Cillard Camogie Club, at this devastating time.

"May her beautiful and gentle soul rest in peace."

A tribute to Lillie was also paid by Clanmaurice Medical Practice, the place of work of her mother Martina, the Irish Mirror reports.

They wrote: "Everybody at Clanmaurice Medical Practice is shocked and devastated this evening by the sudden and unexpected passing of our wonderful Martina's eldest daughter Lillie Gaynor, who passed away peacefully at home.

"Young Lillie was the eldest of 4 beautiful girls, had just finished 2nd year in Mary Immaculate College and was out on her teacher training placement in Tralee.

"A keen sports woman, who played football to intermediate level with Abbeydorney Ladies, she was a vibrant enthusiastic brilliant ray of joy and love.

"She was a wonderful daughter, loving sister and loyal friend to all.

"Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to Martina, Eamon, Aisling, Mollie, Grace and all the extended Shanahan and Gaynor family at this terrible time.

"May her beautiful soul rest peacefully in the garden of heaven."

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