'A beautiful sweet boy' - Offaly community in mourning following death of beloved 11-year-old boy

Tributes have poured in following the heartbreaking and untimely death of beloved 11-year-old boy, Ben Daithí Mahon, who passed away peacefully in the arms of his loving family on Monday, March 31, at the Children's Hospital in Crumlin.

Ben, late of Cuba Avenue, Banagher, Co. Offaly, is predeceased by his Nanny Bridie, Uncle Eddie and his Grandfather Eamonn.

Much loved and cherished son of Daithí and Rosie and loving brother of Éanna and Mai, Ben will be so sadly missed by his loving parents, his brother and sister, his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

Ben was a beloved member of the Banagher community and will be sorely missed by all who know him.

Clubs from Banagher have taken to social media to express their heartfelt condolences for young Ben, remembering him as "a great character" and "one of the club's best supporters".

Banagher United AFC said, "The club is extremely saddened to learn of the death of Ben Mahon. We would like to extend our sincere condolences to his parents Daithí and Rosie, his brother and sister Éanna and Mai, his extended family and his many friends. Maybe rest in peace. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís."

While Banagher Community Games posted, "Heartfelt sympathies to Daithi, Rosie, Eanna & Mai on the loss of Ben. We are thinking of you all. He was such a character & will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace Ben."

Tributes have also been pain on RIP.ie, from those who knew and fondly remembered Ben, with comments such as, 

"Daithi, Rosie, Èanna & Mai we are truly heartbroken to hear of Ben’s passing, such a beautiful sweet boy! Your shining star always!! May his little soul rest in peace, heaven has gained a precious Angel."

And, "Deepest Sympathy to Daithi, Rosie, Eanna, Mai and the extended Mahon & Matthews Families on the heart breaking loss of your precious Ben. Ben was always smiling and at his happiest when running & playing with his little dog Tony while supporting his big sister Mai at camogie & football matches. May his gentle soul rest in peace."

Funeral Arrangements

House private please to family and friends.

Removal to St. Rynagh's Church, Banagher on Thursday morning for 11am Funeral Mass with burial afterwards in St. Rynagh's Cemetery.

St. Rynagh Parish Church broadcast all funerals live on: www.cloghanbanagherparish.ie and on Church Radio 106.6 FM

Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu if desired to Aoibheann's Pink Tie and Cliona's Foundation.