Fundraiser launched to help repatriate body of 'wonderful' Irishman who died suddenly in the US

A fundraiser launched to help raise money to repatriate the body of an Irish man who passed away suddenly in the US last week has seen massive support from the public.

Paul Quigley, who was in his 50s, died unexpectedly on Friday, January 3, in Tampa, Florida, where he had been living for a number of years.

Mr Quigley was a talented GAA player who played for St Finians GAA Club in Swords, Dublin prior to his move to the US, where he had been working in construction.

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A fundraiser has been launched on behalf of Mr Quigley's family to raise funds to cover the expenses related to his passing, including but not limited to medical expenses, repatriation costs, funeral costs, travel arrangements, and other family needs.

A message shared on the GoFundMe page by organiser John Flynn states: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden and tragic passing of our dear friend Paul Quigley (Quigs) on January 3rd, 2025, in Tampa, Florida. We are reaching out for support to bring Paul back home to his family in Ireland.

"Paul's loss has left a deep void in the hearts of his friends and family both in Ireland and America. He was full of kindness, humour, and love, and his infectious positivity touched everyone who knew him. We were all fortunate to have had him in our lives.

"We ask that you keep your happy memories of Paul alive in your hearts. Whether big or small, these memories honor the wonderful person he was. Thank you for your support."

The GoFundMe page was set up on Wednesday and has already raised €40,801 from 609 donations, exceeding its target of €35K in less than 24 hours.

Any surplus funds will be donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, who Mr Quigley's family said "have been a tremendous help to us during this difficult time".

The fundraiser's organiser has thanked the public for their overwhelming support: "Your overwhelming support has helped us reach our target! This achievement is a true reflection of the love and respect we all have for Paul, and it means so much to us.

"The speed at which we've reached this milestone is incredible. Paul's memory continues to inspire us, and in his honour, we're raising our goal. By increasing our target, we can extend even more support to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, helping other families in their time of need just as it has helped us."From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Every additional contribution, no matter how small, will bring us closer to this new goal and make a significant impact."

Tributes have been paid to Mr Quigley following the tragic news of his passing, with St Finians GAA Club writing in a message shared on social media: "All at St Finians were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of our former players Paul Quigley.

"Paul played for many years before moving to the US. His Dad Jim Quigley was one of our founding members and played on our first Adult men’s team. They were both involved in designing our very own club crest. Paul’s niece Keira currently plays with our Ladies team."

Mr Quigley was also a member of River Valley Rangers AFC, an amateur soccer club based in Swords, with the club paying tribute online.

"We are sad to learn of the sudden and tragic passing of one of our former players Paul Quigley - Paul played with Rivervalley Rangers on one of our earliest teams in the 80’s through to the mid 90’s," they wrote.

"Paul’s family and friends are reaching out for support to bring Paul back from America, home to his family in Ireland. We are aiming to raise funds to cover the expenses related to Paul's passing, including but not limited to medical expenses, repatriation costs, funeral costs, travel arrangements, and other family needs.

"Any support big or small for one of our own is massively appreciated."

A number of the club members also paid tribute to Mr Quigley, with one mourner writing: "Another good one gone ....rest in peace Quigs.... one of the nicest guys I've had the pleasure of knowing ...Condolences to the Quigley family."

Another person added: "My sincerest condolences to Paul's family. Paul was a legend. Rest in Peace."

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