Widespread shock at unexpected death of 11-year-old boy in Offaly area
Bobby Dunne, Grogan, Ballycumber passed away on Saturday last
There was widespread shock in Offaly and the wider Midlands last week at the unexpected death of an 11-year-old boy.
Bobby Dunne, Grogan, Ballycumber passed away on Saturday last.
His death notice on RIP.ie stated: It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we announce the passing of our beloved Bobby who died on May 2nd 2026, unexpectedly with his family at Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe at the tender age of 11 years. He was predeceased by his cherished grandad Liam Dunne, who will welcome him with open arms.
"Bobby was the adored and dearly loved son of Annalene and Brian and much loved little brother of Jack, treasured grandson of Mick and Jackie Tyrrell and Gemma Dunne. Deeply loved nephew of Ross (Jill), Kenneth (Laura), Sandra (Patrick Rip.) and Billy. He will be sadly missed and forever loved by his cousins Fianna, Liam, Caitlin, Christian, Megan, Cillian, Lennie, and Rowen, extended family, neighbours and school friends in Boher NS.
"Bobby was a little character full of personality and charm, who brought joy and laughter to everyone who knew him."
In a tribute in their weekly notes Ballycumber GAA club stated: "We offer our heartfelt condolences to Brian and Annalene Dunne, his brother Jack and to the Dunne and Tyrrell families on the death of eleven years old Bobby Dunne, Grogan, Ballycumber.
"Bobby was a pupil at Boher NS and will be missed by his school friends and teachers.
"Bobby’s Dad Brian and uncle Kenneth were very valuable players on our teams during their playing careers.
"As a mark of respect to the Dunne family all club activities were cancelled and the Tricolour was flown at half mast. The under 10/11 football blitz arranged for Saturday morning was called off and we thank the Clubs involved for their cooperation. St Manchan Ladies postponed their fundraising walk /run on Bank Holiday Monday."
In a Facebook post, Midland Warriors RFC stated: "Midland Warriors RFC would like to express their deepest and sincere sympathies to the family of Bobby Dunne during this extremely sad time. Bobby was a nephew to ex player Ross Tyrell and cousin to senior women’s player Caitlin Dunne and youth girls player Megan Kelly. May Bobby rest in peace."
Bobby reposed at his home on Monday afternoon last.
Removal was on Tuesday morning to St. Manchan's Church, Boher where his Requiem Mass was celebrated at 11am. A private cremation took place later.
Forever loved and never forgotten.
May he rest in peace.