'A bright light taken far too soon': Outpouring of love and tributes for 'caring' and 'genuine' Lewis Kelly
An outpouring of grief, loss and tributes have followed the untimely passing of young Inishowen man Lewis Kelly, who has been remembered as a ‘gentle giant,’ whose ‘bright light’ has been taken far too soon.
The tragic and untimely death of the 18-year-old, who was from Culdaff, has devastated the community and words of tribute and comfort have been paid to Lewis by people from across the North West and beyond.
Lewis was a 6th year student at Carndonagh Community School, where staff said his loss ‘has left an enormous void in our school, our community, and in the lives of all who knew and loved him.’
In a touching tribute, the school shared memories of Lewis, recalled his love of sport and told how he was ‘deeply respected’ by all.
“He proudly represented Carndonagh Community School in Gaelic football, hurling and soccer, played Gaelic football at minor level with Malin GAA, and lined out for Culdaff Soccer Club. Whether on the pitch, the field, or in training, Lewis brought commitment, determination and team spirit. His presence, energy and encouragement lifted those around him. Lewis never let the team down he gave everything both in training and while playing a match in whatever code, he was a true team player.”
A ‘gentle giant,’ he carried himself, they added, ‘with kindness, respect and quiet confidence.’
"He greeted teachers, staff and fellow students every day with warmth and good manners. He always came to school with a positive attitude, ready to get on with the day, and ready to support those around him. He was deeply respected by his teachers, appreciated by all the school staff, and valued greatly by his friends and classmates.
“There are some people whose presence makes a place better simply because they are there. Lewis was one of those people.”
The school added how the tragedy of Lewis’ loss, on a ‘normal Friday night doing something he loved’ has ‘changed countless lives forever’ and is difficult to understand.
“Our thoughts today are especially with Lewis’s family, in particular his brother Quinn who is another valued member of the school community, whose grief is beyond words. The tragedy is even more poignant due to the fact that Lewis’s long standing girlfriend Darcy is also a 6th year student in our school community and her heart is also broken at this time. We also think of his teammates, coaches, friends and everyone who shared part of life’s journey with him.
“As a school community, we will remember Lewis not only for the matches played, the jerseys worn, or the victories celebrated, but for the person he was, respectful, caring, humble and genuine.
“Though his time with us was far too short, Lewis made a lasting impact. His memory will live on in the corridors of the school, on the playing fields where he gave so much joy and effort, and in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.
“May we honour Lewis by carrying forward the qualities he showed every day, kindness, respect, teamwork and courage.”
The school added how they ‘will remember Lewis not just for how he died, but for how he lived, with heart, with courage, and with a spirit that, even in silence, will forever remain a part of this community. Rest peacefully, Lewis. You will never be forgotten.”
In a further reflection, titled: ‘A Reflection on a Life Lived with Passion,’ the school said they ‘stand united in grief, trying to process the sudden loss of Lewis, a bright light taken far too soon from our school and our field.’
“To die doing what He loved is a concept that offers little comfort today, but it speaks to the passion Lewis brought to every practice and every game.
“He was more than an athlete He was a friend, a classmate, a sibling, and a cherished member of our community.”
Inishowen Cathaoirleach Martin McDermott said it was with ‘profound sadness that we mourn the loss of Lewis Kelly, an 18-year-old from Culdaff whose life touched so many in our community.’
“On behalf of Donegal County Council and the people of Inishowen, I wish to extend our deepest condolences to Lewis’s family, friends, and all those affected by this tragedy. Lewis will be remembered for his kindness, his vibrant spirit, and the positive impact he had on those around him.”
“We stand together in grief and offer our support to the Kelly family during this incredibly difficult time. May his memory bring comfort and strength to all who knew him. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
In a poignant tribute, Malin GAA said that in Lewis’ short life, he ‘filled our hearts so much, you put your heart and soul into the Black and Amber and moving forwards going to be tough.
“To look back on your memory, climbing the ranks through underage, you were every coach’s dream, showing more potential at every stage.
“We'll miss your witty charm, your ever smiling face and the wonderful attitude you had, bringing so much joy around our place.
“We don't know why this happened, why God made this call, all we know is the best full forward in heaven is about to lose the ball. Rest in peace Lewis”
Lewis’ Family have placed his ball on the pitch in Connolly Park, for anyone who wishes to sign it.
Malin Clubhouse will be open daily from 8.30am–9.30pm over the coming days.
A book of condolences is in place for those who wish to express their sympathies, share memories, or offer support.
Culdaff FC also opened its clubhouse for the community on Tuesday night and has suspended all club activities until further notice.
“In time, we will share more memories and tributes to our wonderful club member Lewis.”
Clonmany Shamrocks FC also held a minute’s silence before their reserve game in memory of Lewis.
Culdaff Tidy Towns told how ‘our little village of Culdaff has been left paralysed with the profound sadness of losing one of its finest, Lewis Kelly’.
“You will be forever missed but never forgotten young man. May you rest in eternal peace.”
McGuinness’ Bar in Culdaff said ‘there is a great sadness looming over our village and the ripples stretch far and wide’.
“A bright star has dimmed but the light he shed will live forever.”
Glengad FC said there were ‘no words that can describe the heartbreak felt across the community’.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Lewis’ family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts are especially with his father Hugh, a valued underage coach in our club, and his brothers Quinn and Regan, who are both part of our underage teams.
“We also wish to offer our sincere condolences to everyone in Malin GAA and Culdaff Football Club, where Lewis was a proud player and teammate.
“Our community will stand united to support everyone affected by the awful tragedy.”
Further tributes have been paid by multiples sports clubs across Inishowen, Donegal, Derry and further afield, in which Lewis is remembered as a dedicated sportsman, a great friend and teammate and a bright light in his community.
Inishowen Rugby Club said Lewis’ loss is felt ‘right across the community’.