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25 Jan 2026

RIP: 'An honour to have known him'- Carlow football club pay tribute to sports coach

County Carlow football rugby club made a special tribute post after the passing of a popular Carlow man recently

RIP: 'An honour to have known him'- Carlow football club pay tribute to sports coach

Rest in Peace Martin Dunphy of Carlow Town

A special tribute has been made by Carlow rugby club to a Carlow man who has sadly died recently.

Martin Dunphy was from Carlow Town and passed away on January 18th 2026 peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny surrounded by his family, who loved him dearly.

He was the beloved husband of Deirdre, much loved father of Ross, David and Hannah and cherished brother of Marianne, Helen, Audrey and Alan.

Martin will be forever loved and missed by his wife, sons, daughter, sisters, brother, mother-in-law Attracta Carbery, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, aunts, uncle, cousins, relatives and his many friends.

Donations in lieu can be made to Spinal Injuries Ireland Donate here or Holy Angles Day Care Centre, Carlow- Donate here.

County Carlow football rugby club made a special tribute post on social media following the passing of the Carlow man, which said: "The entire club would like to pass our sincere condolences to the Dunphy family on the passing of Martin Dunphy.
"Martin was a past player of the club and an influential part of the three in a row Towns Cup winning team of 1992, 1993 & 1994. After his playing career, Martin passed on his wealth of knowledge all the youths of Carlow Rugby Club, coaching various successful youth teams.
"It was an honour to have known him".

Heartfelt messages have been left on RIP.ie, from those who knew and fondly remembered Martin, with one mourner writing,

"Sincere condolences to Ross, David, Hannah and Deirdre on Martin's passing.
Martin was an absolute gentleman. I was very lucky to have him as an underage rugby coach alongside Ross. He was such a genuine caring person, maybe rest in peace".

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Another message said, "It is with a very heavy heart that I sending this condolence. I remember the Dunphy’s moving across the road from us on Laburnum Drive. Martin was always full of fun and devilment and from playing kerb ball to tig there was endless laughs on the road.

"Every child belonged in every house on the road and times were happy. Martin was everyone’s friend and this was especially evident today with the wonderful display of respect and love for Martin. Martin you have left your beautiful family heartbroken but my prayer is that your family will take comfort knowing that you are now reunited with your lovely parents and catching up with Bob and having fun".

"Deepest sympathy to Deirdre Ross David Hanna. Marianne Helen Audrey and Alan Martin was the most inspirational person to have played with and to all underage players he coached true legend may he rest in peace," another mourner said.

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