Tributes paid to former Offaly hurler after brave battle with illness

Offaly GAA has paid a warm tribute to former county hurler Eddie Bevans who died on Sunday, at the age of just 41, following a brave battle with illness.

The Shinrone man was diagnosed in July of last year with Motor Neurone Disease and went on to raise more than €30,000 for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association by taking part in a sponsored climb of Croagh Patrick.

He successfully reached the summit of Croagh Patrick last October and said he was "blown away" by the generosity people had shown, with the fundraising total "far exceeding" his expectations.

Shinrone GAA said it was "with deep sadness" that everyone in the club learned of the passing of "our dear clubman, Eddie Bevans".

"We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Eddie’s family, friends and team mates at this difficult time. May his gentle soul rest in peace," said the club.

Offaly GAA also said it was deeply saddened by his passing, describing him as "a stylish forward who represented his club Shinrone with distinction and pride".

Eddie lined out for the Offaly hurlers at minor level in 2002 and 2003, "before going on to play at U21 level for three years 2004 to 2006," the county board said.

"He made his senior debut against Wexford in the Leinster championship of 2006 and made five senior championship and five league appearances for the county."

Offaly GAA extended its deepest sympathy to his wife, son, parents and family members.

Eddie's passing is deeply regretted by his heartbroken wife Sinead, son Cian, parents Henry and Margaret, brother Henry, sisters Lorna, Louise and Orla, parents-in-law Tommy and Mary (Egan), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and a wide circle of friends and teammates.

He was reposing at his home (R42 Y623) on Monday from 4pm to 8pm and will be reposing there again from 4pm to 8pm on Tuesday (house private after 8 o'clock).

His house will be strictly private on Wednesday morning, followed by removal to St Mary's church, Shinrone (R42 WT26), for funeral Mass at 12 noon. Burial will take place afterwards in the New cemetery, Shinrone.

May he rest in peace.