The County Tyrone GAA family has been plunged into mourning following the passing of eight-year-old Odhrán McGirr, who will be remembered by club and teammates as a “bright light” who brought laughter and kindness wherever he went.
The Ballygawley boy fought a brave battle after being diagnosed with an aggressive High Grade Glioblastoma in January 2025.
A GoFundMe page set up to support Odhrán and his family in order that they could “make the most out of time together” raised over £136,000 – almost three times its original target.
Over the past year he had twice undergone surgery, as well as intensive radiotherapy and chemotherapy to try to slow down the progression of the tumour.
Sadly, however, Odhrán passed away on Saturday, as club and county paid tribute to a young boy who touched the hearts of everyone he met.
Only a few weeks ago, Odhrán had led County Tyrone out onto the pitch in Dungannon, which will be remembered as a moment of immense pride for all who were present.
A young Gael through and through, he was a member of Errigal Ciaran, which paid a moving tribute on social media.
The club wrote: “It is with unimaginable heartbreak and profound sadness, after a courageous battle, that we learned of the passing of our young player, warrior and dear friend, Odhrán McGirr RIP.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his heartbroken parents Patrick and Catriona, his brother Ruairí, his sister Saoirse, and the entire McGirr and Carmody families at this incredibly difficult time.
“Odhrán was a cherished member of Aireagal Chiaráin GAC – a bright light within our club whose presence brought joy, energy and pride to all who had the privilege of knowing him. From his earliest days in our colours, he embodied everything that is good about our games – friendship, spirit, resilience and a deep, unwavering love for his club.
“The McGirr name is woven deeply into the fabric of Aireagal Chiaráin. Odhrán’s grandfather Johnny has given over 30 years of dedicated service as a volunteer; his father Patrick a committed youth coach; his uncle Dermot a longstanding youth officer – alongside a wider family who have been true stalwarts of our club.
“Odhrán carried that legacy with quiet pride each time he stepped onto the field. He wore the jersey with honour, determination and a smile that will never be forgotten.
“As a club, we are honoured to have shared in memories that will be treasured forever – from Odhrán’s unforgettable day on the hallowed turf of Croke Park to that special Saturday morning in Glencull and Dunmoyle that will live long in all our hearts.
“There are no words that can truly capture the depth of sorrow we feel as a club and community. A life taken far too soon leaves a silence that echoes through our pitches, our dressing rooms and our hearts. In the difficult days, weeks and months ahead we will stand shoulder to shoulder with Patrick, Catriona and the entire family, just as they have always stood with us.
“We will forever remember Odhrán – his laughter, his kindness, his teammates and the pure joy he brought to the game. He was and always will be, one of our own.”
Cúchulainn an Ghleanna hurling club described Odhrán as a “much loved wee player and friend”.
“Odhrán was the kind of wee boy that leaves a lasting impression on your heart,” the club said. “Odhrán took on his illness with bravery, determination and courage and his smiling face, kind nature and love for life, family, friends and sport will never be forgotten.
“As a club we will forever cherish the memories of Odhrán, wearing our jersey with so much pride and playing for our club in which he found so much joy.
“As a multi-talented player Odhrán loved to play gaelic for his home club Errigal Ciaran and also he enjoyed soccer with his friends at Augher Stars.
“His passing will leave a hole in the hearts of all who knew him.
“We wish to extend our sympathy and condolences to his heartbroken parents, mum Catriona, who is the heartbeat of our club, dad Patrick, little brother Ruairí, baby sister Saoirse, his auntie Orla our club treasurer, and the entire McGirr and Carmody families.
“Odhrán, we will never forget you.”
And his soccer club, Augher Stars, added: “Odhrán showed great courage and strength throughout his illness. He was truly an inspiration to everyone. Rest in Peace.”
Tyrone GAA said Odhrán had a “deep love for sport and embraced life with kindness, energy and joy”, adding: “A caring child and a wonderful big brother to Ruairí and Saoirse, he showed extraordinary courage, strength and positivity beyond his years in the face of an unimaginably difficult illness.
“Only a few weeks ago, he led the Tyrone Senior Footballers onto the field in Dún Geanainn – a moment of immense pride that will live long in the memory of all those in attendance.
“Our heartfelt condolences are with his parents Patrick and Catriona, his brother and sister, and the entire McGirr family, as well as his friends and teammates. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
St Ciaran’s Youth Club, in Ballygawley, described Odhrán, a past member, as “a warrior and little hero”.
“Odhrán, we are truly honoured to have had you as a member of our youth club,” the club added. “We will forever remember you with true admiration for the bravery and resilience you have shown and forever remember the little warrior you truly are.”
Funeral arrangements have yet to be confirmed.
To his family and friends, we offer our heartfelt condolences on their devastating loss.
