'Robbie was a tonic to the soul' - GAA club pays tribute following death of 'beautiful' and 'kind' ex-player
A community in Co. Louth has been plunged into mourning following the death of "beautiful" and "kind" young man called Robbie Cunningham.Robbie, from Clogherhead, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away in the Mater Hospital on Thursday February 19, 2026.A former player for his beloved Dreadnot GFC in Clogherhead, Robbie was remembered by the club as a "dear friend" who was "full of wisdom on how the game should be paid"."Everyone at Dreadnots GFC is deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Robbie Cunningham, and brother of senior players Ciaran, Kelly and Nicole," the tribute read on social media."Robbie represented the club at underage level, and although his own playing days were cut short, his passion for the game never faded and he remained one of our most loyal supporters. Robbie had a deep love not only for the Dreadnots but for GAA as a whole, and he was never shy about sharing a bit of advice or wisdom on how the game should be played."Rest easy Robbie, your voice on the side-line and your love for the club will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with John, Aileen, Ciaran, Kelly, Nicole and all of his family and friends at this difficult time. Ar Dheis Dé Go Raibh A Anam."Robbie's death notice on RIP.ie read: "Robbie Cunningham, Oriel Cove, Clogherhead, Co. Louth. 19th February 2026. Peacefully in the Mater Hospital, surrounded by his loving family."Beloved son of John and Aileen and loving brother to Kelly, Ciarán and Nicole. Robbie will be very sadly missed by his parents, sisters, brother, Nanny Evelyn, aunts, uncles, cousins and his wide circle of friends, near and far."The details for Robbie's funeral had not been confirmed at the time of publishing.Robbie was the godson and nephew of former Louth Sinn Fein Councillor, Tom Cunningham. The party extended its condolences to the Cunningham family on social media."Louth Sinn Féin wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to our friend and comrade (former Cllr) Tom Cunningham on the passing of his nephew and godson, Robbie."We also extend our sympathies to his parents John and Aileen, to his sisters Kelly and Nicole and to his brother Ciarán. Also to his extended family, friends and community. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."Friends and family have left countless touching messages paying tribute to Robbie online."Robbie was a tonic to the soul, salt of the earth and everything in between. He will be sorely missed. May god be with you Aileen, Bunty, Kelly, Ciaran and Nicole. Thinking of you all right now. Rest in peace Robbie," said one man.A former co-worker wrote: "Deepest condolences to Ciaran, Kelly and the Cunningham family. I am so sorry for your loss. It was a pleasure to have known Robbie, and I have such great memories of working together in Supermacs. May he rest in eternal peace."A friend lamented: "Time stood still for a moment when I heard the news. I didn’t quite understand how the boy who was always the life and soul in every room could leave us so soon."You have touched so many lives with your amazing humour, and I hope it brings your family warmth when they realise that everyone has smiled today reminiscing on the hilarious memories you’ve left us with. I love you, Goodnight."Want to see more of the stories you love from the Irish Mirror? Making us your preferred source on Google means you’ll get more of our exclusives, top stories and must-read content straight away. To add Irish Mirror as a preferred source, simply click here.
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