A Co Down footballer who died suddenly has been remembered as a “a remarkable young gentleman”.
Dylan Kelly, a father-of-one from Downpatrick, is understood to have passed away on Monday.
Numerous tributes have been posted on social media describing him as “a great lad from a brilliant family” and “such a lovely young man”.
A friend wrote that he was “one of a kind”, while another said he was a “big gentleman who always brightened the room up”.
SDLP councillor Gareth Sharvin posted on Facebook that Mr Kelly was “a gentleman both on and off the pitch, and a friend to all”.
“For such a short life you have had a large impact on people’s lives that provides lasting memories forever,” he said.
Downpatrick FC said in a post that its committee, coaches, members and players “mourn the passing of our dear friend and teammate”.
Rest in Peace Dylan The committee, coaches, members and players of Downpatrick Football Club mourn the passing of our...
Posted by Downpatrick FC on Tuesday 11 June 2024
“He was a huge part of our senior panel creating many long-lasting friendships during his time playing with us and will be fondly remembered by everyone at the club,” it said.
Drumaness Mills FC also said the club was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the death of Mr Kelly, the son of their former player and coach Barry.
”Barry is a former player and coach with the club and we offer the hand of support to him and to the Downpatrick footballing community,” the club said.
Rossglass County FC also said they were “saddened” by the death of their former youth player.
Celtic Bhoys FC Downpatrick said Mr Kelly was “a friend to many across our club and in the local area”.
“Always the gentleman with time to talk to anyone - he will be sadly missed by all that knew him including all his former teammates and coaches,” the club said.
A GoFundMe page set up in memory of Mr Kelly to help with the funeral costs described him as “a local lad loved by many”.
Mr Kelly is survived by his parents Barry and Anna, siblings Jamie, Chloe, Eden, partner Georgia and daughter Bria.
