'We are heartbroken' Laois communities mourn death of teenage boy

A Portlaoise teenager's death has devastated his family, friends and community, with tributes pouring in.

David Brown lost his life tragically in a quad bike incident last Easter Sunday, bereaving his parents James and Carmel, sister Sarah and brother Conor.

He was a Junior Cert student at St Mary's CBS who wrote this tribute on their Facebook page.

“As a school community, we are heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of our much loved, charming and vibrant 3rd year student.

“David was a promising student who was diligent in our classrooms, brightened our corridors and excelled in representing our school teams.

“His fearless nature was apparent in our recent school skiing trip to Italy, where once again, his bravery showed no boundaries. His respectful manner never went unnoticed by teachers and coaches alike.

“To James, Carmel, Sarah and our own Conor - we are so sorry for your immense loss. Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to you and your extended families. ️

“Although it is very difficult to process this, we must support each other in the times ahead. To David and Conor's classmates, team-mates and friends, please stay close over the coming days.”

The school in conjunction with Portlaoise GAA club, opened on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon to welcome David's friends, classmates and teammates to call to the CBS where counsellors were on hand.

Portlaoise GAA said in a Facebook post that they are heartbroken.

“David was one of our very best and brightest. In football and in hurling. For club and for county. Vibrant, fearless, skilful, determined, proud - a shining star on every team he played for. Brilliant attitude and manners, always respectful to his coaches and his teammates, always willing to listen and to learn.

“Already a hero in the eyes of so many of our youngest, David was a cast iron prospect for the future of our senior teams. It is difficult to process this. We will do our best to support each other over the times ahead.

“James, Carmel, Conor, Sarah - we are so sorry for your immense loss. We share your profound grief. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you and the Brown and Maloney families.

“To David’s many friends, team-mates, coaches, parents of friend please stay close and connected over the coming days. RIP David. Forever young. Forever a Star.” Portlaoise GAA said.

Laois Gaels also soffered sympathies.

“The deepest sympathies of all Laois Gaels to the Brown family and the wider Portlaoise and Laois GAA families on their heartbreaking loss. Words don’t seem enough at times like this.”

Stylebar Portlaoise also paid tribute.

“We are devastated to hear of the sudden passing of David Brown. David was an absolute gentleman, and he will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Brown and Maloney families at this unbelievably sad time. Gone but not forgotten. Rest easy David”

CRG Camogie gave this tribute.

“Our club would like to pass on our condolences to the Brown and Moloney families on the tragic passing of David Brown who played for our neighbours Portlaoise, his cousins Kate and Maura had represented our club in recent times. May he Rest in peace.”

Portlaoise Panthers said the following.

“Everyone at Portlaoise Panthers Basketball Club is shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of David Brown. We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the Brown family at this extremely difficult time. Also to Davids extended family, friends, coaches and teammates. May his gentle soul rest in peace."

Dublin GAA Fans gave this online tribute.

“Heartbreaking news that a young Laois player, 15 year old, David Brown has passed away, following a tragic quad bike accident. David had only lined out for his county in the Celtic Challenge Hurling competition on Saturday against Kildare and was also part of the Laois minor panel on Friday, for a fixture against Antrim. His brother Conor is a member of the Laois Senior Football panel, who defeated Wexford yesterday.

“Thoughts are prayers are with Davids family and young friends and sincere condolences to Laois GAA and the members of Portlaoise GAA club, on their sad loss. A young life tragically cut short. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Timahoe Ladies GAA said the following.

“We would like to pass on our condolences to the Brown and Maloney families on the tragic passing of David Brown who played for our neighbours, Portlaoise. We are all thinking of the family at this very sad time. May he Rest in Peace.

Portlaoise Athletics Club also paid a tribute.

“All of us in Portlaoise Athletic Club are shocked and saddened at the tragic death of David Brown on Sunday, a life taken way too soon. David's sister Sarah is a member of our juvenile club. No words can describe what his family are going through at the moment. We offer our deepest sympathies to Sarah, her brother Conor, parents Carmel and James, along with the extended Brown and Maloney families and to David's many friends, team mates and school mates. May David Rest in Peace.”

Emo GAA also offered condolences to the Brown and Maloney families.

”Everyone in Emo GAA Club offers our deepest condolences on the very sad passing of the young and very talented David Brown. We hope that you find peace and strength in the arms of each other.”

Jim Osborne of Laois Weather shared photos of David and his Dad taken in 2019 and again recently.

“How would anyone know it would be the last time I see you together. My heart goes out to James's family and all the Portlaoise teams tonight. Hold your kids tight to you. We only get one chance with them. I've know the Brown family all my life nearly. Salt of the earth man and a father who adored his son very very much,” Jim Osborne said.

Funeral arrangements are to be announced later.