Community in shock as GAA legend's son dies on family holiday in Portugal

Tributes have flooded in for a well-respected Irish businessman and father-of-two who passed away suddenly after falling ill on holiday in Portugal. 

67-year-old Padraic Staunton, a native of Louisburgh, Co Mayo, who had been living in Athboy, Co Meath, since the early 1980s, died unexpectedly on January 16 while on a family holiday in Portugal. 

A popular businessman and retired pharmacist, Padraic is the son of legendary Mayo footballer Joe, who was right half-back on the last All-Ireland-winning Mayo team in 1951 when they beat a fancied Meath side with five points to spare. 

Padraic was described as an influential figure in the Athboy community, engrained in business and sport, having run a successful pharmacy in the town and served as president, player, coach, and dedicated member of Athboy RFC over many years.

Mr Staunton is survived by his wife, Brenda, his son Colm, his daughter Emer and extended family.

Many have taken to express their sympathies with Padraic's family online, as well as share their fond memories.

One mourner on RIP.ie said: "We were privileged to have Padraic as a neighbour. A kind, gentle, solid, reliable man with a caring strength who appeared for us as a family in our own dark days. He always had a smile and words of reassurance. He will be greatly missed and our heart goes out to Brenda, the children and the extended family."

A tribute from local rugby club Athboy RFC said: "It is with deep sadness that we at Athboy RFC mourn the passing of Padraic Staunton. Padraic was a true stalwart of our club, having served as President, player, coach, and dedicated member over many years. He was an absolute gentleman, both on and off the pitch, and his presence will be sorely missed by all in the club and the community.

"Padraic’s contributions to the club were immense, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He embodied the spirit of rugby, with his passion, sportsmanship, and unwavering commitment to the club's values. More than that, he was a friend to so many, always offering a kind word, a helping hand, or a warm smile.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Brenda, his children Colm and Emer, and all of his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We share in your grief and offer our deepest condolences. Padraic’s legacy will live on in the memories we share and the positive impact he had on our club. He will be forever remembered with fondness and respect."

Another tribute read: "Heartbroken on the untimely passing of Padraic. He was the pillar of Athboy community. Always a smile & willing to help."

Padraic will rest in repose at Mullen's Funeral Home, O'Growney St., Athboy, on Sunday, February 2, from 6-9pm, and at Sweeney's Funeral Home, Louisburgh, on Monday, February 3, from 5-8pm.

His funeral will take place at St. Patrick's Church, Louisburgh on Tuesday, February 4 at 12 noon, with private cremation to follow.

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