A 14-YEAR-OLD boy who died suddenly in Co Armagh has been described as a "highly talented and extremely popular" pupil and GAA player.
The funeral will take place on Monday of Patrick Quinn, a Year 11 student at St Paul's High School in Bessbrook who died at his home in Camlough on Friday.
The teenager was a keen footballer and hurler, representing both the Carrickcruppen and Craobh Rua clubs.
Patrick, who had attended St Malachy's Primary School in Camlough, had just begun his first year of GCSE study at St Paul's.
Principal Jarlath Burns said on Sunday night that the "entire community is saddened that Patrick is no longer with us".
"Patrick was a highly talented and extremely popular member of the school community," he said.
"He loved his GAA sports and farming, and was just back from the ploughing championships last week."
He added: "His family are well-known and hugely respected in this area and they will be supported by the school and the whole community in the coming weeks and months."
Both the school and local GAA clubs opened their doors at the weekend for people affected by the tragedy.
St Paul's opened its oratory for pupils and their families, and staff were on hand to offer support.
The Craobh Rua and Carrickcruppen clubs said they had cancelled all activities until further notice, as did Meabh O'Neills camogie club, where Patrick's sister Kate is an under-10 player.
Carrickcruppen St Patrick's said: "Patrick followed on with the tradition of the Quinn and Boyle families by representing Carrickcruppen. Both families have been generous sponsors to our club down throughout the years."
The only son of Gerard and Mary Quinn, the teenager was described as a "little gentleman" in hundreds of tributes posted on social media.
One former coach said he always gave everything in games.
"He was a no nonsense, tough as teak defender. My heart is broken today. God bless and may God take care of you."
Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Conor Murphy said the area was "in shock".
"This is an unimaginable tragedy for the Quinn family and our thoughts first and foremost must go out to them.
"Patrick was so highly thought of by everyone that people are almost in disbelief."
The schoolboy will be buried in Carrickcruppen after Requiem Mass at St Malachy's Church at noon on Monday.
He is survived by his parents and sisters Eilis, Kate, Mary and Rose.
