THE family of an "inspirational" west Belfast man who died suddenly have told of their devastation.
Johnny O'Dwyer, who was 27, died on Monday at his home in the Beechmount area.
A labourer by trade, he was well known in the area after having recently helped to re-start the Beechmount Residents' Collective.
Just a few weeks ago, he led a team of volunteers carrying out a clean up in the area and had helped to remove graffiti.
He had also volunteered his time to help with the establishment of a new community garden in the area.
The 27-year-old was found at his home on Monday and it is understood he took his own life.
Speaking to the Irish News, Johnny's sisters said they will remember their brother as "someone who brought out the best in everybody" adding that they have been "so proud" of him.
Carol O'Dwyer said:
"Everybody that met him fell in love with him. We are completely in shock. We are devastated. The world is never going to be the same again."
She said her brother who was funny and had the "most infectious laugh" had "lived life to the fullest" and cared for others.
"He cared more about other people," she said.
"He would have given you his last penny."
Ms O'Dwyer appealed to anyone in need of help and support to reach out.
"Just talk about it and if anything, this is a wake up call," she said.
"You don't want your family to go through any of what we are going through."
She revealed the family had been planning a getaway together to the Republic on Friday but instead, would now be attending Johnny's funeral.
"At the minute, all I feel is the absence of him. He has taken our hearts with him."
Cheryl O'Dwyer said "everything" in life had now changed following her loss of her brother."
"There are no words," she said.
"How do you talk about the fact that part of our soul is gone?
"It is really the most bizarre feeling because there is not one part of me that has accepted it."
Ms O'Dwyer said her brother, who had just returned last year from travelling in Australia, had been a "supportive friend"
"It is so sudden and I don't have a brother any more." she said.
The family praised the Beechmount community for the support it had shown the family following Johnny's death and said the heartbreak felt was "testament" to how well regarded their brother was.
