Tributes paid to GAA star who passes away aged 29 after short illness
Rugby and GAA clubs across Northern Ireland have expressed their condolences following the passing of a former player after a brief illness.An overwhelming wave of grief has followed the death of Tighearnán McLoughlin-Roche, a father-of-one from Greystones, Co Wicklow, who additionally spent time during his younger years residing in and representing Dungannon, Co Tyrone.The 29 year old died following a brief illness at St. John's Hospice, Wirral, and has been remembered as a dedicated husband and father who will be deeply mourned by everyone who encountered him.An announcement on RIP.ie stated: "Tighearnán McLoughlin Roche, Wirral, formerly Greystones, Co. Wicklow, Tullamore, Co. Offaly and Dungannon, Co. Tyrone."Peacefully at Wirral St. John's Hospice on February 3rd 2026, aged 29, after a short illness bravely borne.", reports Belfast Live."Beloved husband of Ellie (Donnelly) and adored father of Ailbhe."Cherished son of Martina (McLoughlin) and David (Roche), and much-loved stepson of Joan (O'Hanlon)."Dear brother of Rebecca, Ellen and Katie."Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, daughter, parents, sisters, mother and father-in-law Lynda and Martin, his grandmothers Mary McLoughlin and Paddy Roche, extended family and a wide circle of friends."The family would like to sincerely thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Wirral St. John's Hospice for their exceptional care, kindness and support."Tighearnán was an accomplished sportsman from an early age, having represented Rugby and GAA clubs throughout Ireland and in England, with numerous clubs posting tributes on social media to honour him and convey their sorrow at his passing.Dungannon Thomas Clarke GFA stated: "The Officers, Committee, Players and Members of Thomas Clarke G.F.C. are saddened at the death of our former player Tighearnán "Offaly" Mcloughlin - Roche."Wife of Ellie, father of Ailbhe, son of Martina, David and Joan, brother of Rebecca, Ellen and Katie."Ar dhéis De go raibh anam uasal."Dungannon Rugby Football Club stated: "It's with great sadness that Dungannon Rugby Club has learnt of the passing of past youth player Tighearńan "Offaly" McLoughlin - Roche."Our thoughts are with Tighearńan's wife Ellie, daughter Aibhe and families."Killyman St Mary's GFC stated: "Killyman GFC are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of past youth player Tighearńan "Offaly" McLoughlin - Roche."During his time with our club, Tighearnan delivered Irish language classes, a tradition which we as a club are very proud of."Our thoughts are with Tighearńan's wife Ellie, daughter Aibhe , his mother Martina, father David and the Roche and McLoughlin families at this very difficult time."Birkenhead Park Rugby Club stated: "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Tighearnán 'Tig' McLoughlin-Roche."Tig joined us 5 years ago when he moved to the area and will be deeply missed."Tig passed after bravely fighting a devastatingly short illness."All of our thoughts and prayers go out to Tig's wife Ellie, daughter Aibhe and family."Click here to sign up to our sport newsletter, bringing you the top stories and biggest headlines from Ireland and beyond
