Warm tributes to Offaly man after tragic death in Spain

Warm tributes have been paid to an Offaly father of two who died after a tragic accident while on holiday in Spain last week.

Stephen Kelly, who was in his 30s, passed away on Monday of last week, March 18, following a tragic accident while he was holidaying in Gran Canaria.

Late of Athlone, and formerly of London and Tullamore, Mr. Kelly worked in construction, and is predeceased by his beloved father, Kevin, a Clara native who passed away in April 2018.

The popular Offaly man has two sons Jack and Regan, and was highly regarded by all who knew him. A number of warm tributes have been paid to his memory this week, with Rhode Celtic FC describing him as “one of the best players we ever had and key to us winning our only league.”

The club also said the late Stephen Kelly became “a special friend” to everyone involved with Rhode Celtic and added that the club would always have “a soft spot in our hearts” for their much-loved former player.

“We will miss you deeply,” said the poignant tribute, adding that memories of Stephen will "last us a lifetime".

The late Stephen Kelly is sadly missed and fondly remembered by his loving mother Brigid (née Quinn), sons Regan and Jack, their mother Mary, sisters Pamela, Ciara and Alanna, brother-in-law Paddy, sister-in-law Noreen, nephew, nieces, extended family and many friends in Ireland and England.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced, and Mr. Kelly's family have requested that donations be made, if desired, to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.